saturday snack / 002

I have found that one of the hardest parts of trying to make healthier choices, when it comes to what you eat, is the in between meals stage: snacks. To make it easier for you, each week I will bring you a new healthy option for snacking.

Popcorn is a great source of whole grains and is a quick and easy snack to put together. I even pack some for a quick snack for school.

Choosing the right kind of microwavable popcorn can be tricky. Most have artificial ingredients and contain hydrogenated oils which are a source for the deadly trans fats we have been told to steer clear of-and for good reason, but that's a topic for another day.  Of course a popcorn machine and kernels is the healthiest route, but we don't all have a popcorn machine laying around in the kitchen. As I browsed the aisle of popcorn in the grocery store, I found Orville Redenbacher's naturals microwavable popcorn. The only ingredients being whole grain popping corn, palm oil and salt. 

• Serving Size: 1 cup popped • 30 Calories • 2g of fat • 1g saturated fat • 0g cholesterol • 400mg sodium • 65mg potassium • 17g carbs • 3g fiber • 0g sugar • 2g protein •

Popcorn is a great alternative to chips, when you are craving something crunchy, and it is an excellent source of whole grains, which may reduce your risk of heart disease, diabetes and may help you on your road to weight loss. Be careful because adding butter and drenching your popcorn in salt can quickly turn this healthy snacking option into an unhealthy one. Enjoy!

Check out other healthy snacking options!