Controlling your diet and getting regular exercise is essential for managing your diabetes. People frequently hunt for snacks that are low in blood sugar. Have you ever wondered if a diabetic can consume popcorn in such a situation? If it is cooked and consumed in the proper proportion, plain popcorn with its high-fibre and low-calorie content is a fantastic option. Learn more about Popcorn’s benefits, nutritional composition, hazards associated with excessive intake, and more here.
Nutritional information about popcorn
Popcorn has a Glycemic Index (GI) of 55, but a Glycemic Load (GL) of just 6. This means that if it is ingested in moderation, blood sugar levels won’t rise.
Plain air-popped popcorn weighing 24 grams and devoid of butter, oil, or caramel contains:
- 18.6 g of carbohydrates.
- 0.2 g of sugars
- 93 calories
- 1.1 g of fat, 3 g of protein
- 3.6 g of fibre
- Salt: 1.9 mg
Iron, Copper, Magnesium, Manganese, Potassium, Phosphorus, Calcium, Zinc, and Vitamins A, B1, B3, B6, and E are all abundant in popcorn.
In addition, it is abundant in lutein, zeaxanthin, and beta-carotenoids, all of which promote eye health. It has beneficial polyphenols that lower the risk of cancer and prevent heart disorders.
Popcorn’s benefits for diabetes
All unprocessed corn is used to make plain popcorn. Therefore, it has a good amount of plant fibre. It lessens the digestion of carbohydrates and the absorption of sugar into the circulation, managing type 2 diabetes.
- optimum blood flow
- Blood sugar balances Weight loss assistance
- a source of antioxidants
- Low calories and sugar
- Popcorn is a weight-control and hunger-controlling food. Antioxidants, which are abundant in it, are crucial for both preventing and managing diabetes.
Popcorn Consumption Strategies for Diabetes
Making nutritious popcorn servings is essential for managing diabetes. Incorrect preparation methods can result in up to 30 extra calories per serving and considerably higher blood sugar levels.
It is recommended to have air-popped corn plain, without any additional butter, cheese, oils, caramel, or flavourings
Serving recommendations
Serving sizes for popcorn are provided. Even with generally healthy foods, adhering to these can significantly reduce calorie consumption.
Additionally, how much a person can or should eat per dish is greatly influenced by the toppings they choose.
Read Also: Pregnancy Gestational Diabetes Diet Calculator
Serving sizes
Five cups of air-popped popcorn have between 100 and 150 calories and almost no fat. Depending on their individual diet plan, people may be able to consume more or less in a portion.
Popcorn shouldn’t have a lot of toppings added if you have diabetes or are on a restricted diet. The greatest option for gaining the most nutritious value with the fewest additional calories and fat is plain, air-popped popcorn.
Pick unbuttered, unsalted popcorn whenever possible.
The dependable source doesn’t use oils that have been hydrogenated.
People can attempt adding one of the following to the flavour to improve it:
- A tiny bit of low-fat, shredded cheese
- Sprinkle some nutritional yeast on top
- A sprinkle of cinnamon, chilli powder, or other spices in olive oil
Purchase advice
Popcorn that is sold in stores as loose kernels is often the healthiest type. The kernels often don’t have any additional salt, oil, sugar, or other components that diabetics should avoid when consumed in this bulk form.
The way of cooking popcorn that best satisfies a person’s wants and preferences is then their choice.
Popcorn heated in the microwave is an alternate snack choice for those seeking a quicker meal. Checking the container is crucial because prepared packs frequently include additional butter or sugar in them. In its place, consumers might search for popcorn bags with light, unsalted butter or fewer calories.
Kettle corn types should be avoided by diabetics since the extra sweetness comes with added sugar. For the same reason, caramel- and candy-covered popcorn is not a wise option as a snack.
Diabetes Risks of Excess Popcorn Consumption
Always stick to the recommended serving amount of popcorn if you intend to use it as a diabetic snack. Overeating can raise blood sugar levels and will not assist you in managing your diabetes.
Popcorn Has Additional Health Benefits For Diabetes
- Lessening food cravings aids in weight management.
- It reduces the risk of type 2 diabetes when used in moderation.
- It reduces the risk of heart disorders since it is high in antioxidants.
- Additionally, it is known to lessen inflammation and work well as an anti-allergen.
- Popcorn is a healthy, low-calorie, high-fibre food for diabetics.
- Because of its low Glycemic Index of 55, it is safe for diabetics.
- Its profile is rich in vitamins and minerals.
Controlling diabetes, body weight, heart diseases, allergies, etc. is made easier with its aid.
Popcorn that has been air-popped without oil is the best kind to consume.
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Conclusion
If you have diabetes, you have a lot of alternatives for nutritious snacks.
As a general guideline, go for meals strong in protein, fibre, and healthy fats, all of which are proven to support the maintenance of normal blood sugar levels.
Obesity and chronic diseases like heart disease are more common in those with type 2 diabetes. As a result, it’s crucial to concentrate on eating meals that are nutrient-dense and generally healthful.
Having diabetes need not make snacking challenging. Even when you’re on the road, you may make and enjoy a variety of fast and simple snacks.
