Popcorn

Corn, usually thought of as a vegetable, is actually a whole grain. Before being milled down into syrup or oil for use in processed foods, corn in it's whole form is a good source of fiber and several B vitamins. Lucky for you, it's whole form includes crunchy popcorn!

Microwave popcorn is an easy snack and due to air, there are a lot less calories than in the same amount of a snack like chips. However, most packaged popcorn have added chemicals and unnecessary amounts of salt or butter. Making your own will take just as much time as it does for you to open the package!

Here is a really easy way to make your own popcorn which is cheaper and healthier:

• Put 3 tbsp of popping corn in a lunch bag and fold over the top twice an inch long.
• Microwave until pops are 1-2 seconds apart.
• Add toppings if desired and enjoy! 

*Before toppings this is only 120 calories, and it is enough to share!

Some sample toppings to add to your homemade popcorn:

• 5 sprays of olive oil and a dash of salt
• A dash of salt and pepper
• A dash of basil or oregano with 1 1/2 tbsp nutritional yeast or parmesan cheese
• 2 tsp sugar and 1 tsp cinnamon
• 1/3 cup peanuts

If you choose to get the packaged microwave popcorn instead of "making your own," that is fine, it is still a great snack! Try to stick with light or natural choices and make sure to avoid partially hydrogenated oil in the ingredient list.