We got nothing against popcorn but hey, it's worth a discussion! :)
Popped water lily seeds and popcorn are fairly similar in texture. Both are said to be incredibly tasty and healthy, but which one is the better option? In this blog, we will compare the two snacks on the basis of calorie, fiber, protein, and fat count, as well as antioxidant properties.
Let us first have a look at each of these individually:
Popped water lily seeds, is commonly used in Indian cuisine, as a snack or in preparations of various dishes. They are rich in fiber, protein, magnesium, phosphorus, and other minerals, and also has a low-fat content. It is also widely recognized for its antioxidant properties which boost the immune system.
Popcorn is made by popping corn kernels and is synonymous with cinema halls, fairs, and sporting events. Popcorn, like our snack, is low in calories and fat, and rich in fiber, proteins, and minerals.
So, which one is better? Let us find out:
Calories: 50 grams of roasted WLS contain 180 calories, while the same amount of air-popped popcorn contains around 194 calories. While WLS has a lesser number of calories than popcorn, the difference is quite small.
Fiber: 50 grams of roasted WLS contains almost 14.5 grams of fiber, while 50 grams of air-popped popcorn contains around 7 grams of fiber. While both are rich in fiber, the same weight of WLS contains a little over double the amount of fiber popcorn has.
Protein: 50 grams of roasted WLS contains almost 9.7 grams of protein, while 50 grams of air-popped popcorn contains around 6 grams of protein. The same weight of WLS contains more protein than popcorn.
Fats: 1 cup of roasted WLS (around 8 grams) contains around 0.1 grams of fat, while a cup of air-popped popcorn contains around 0.4 grams of fat. The fat content for both is quite low, but even so, WLS has a lesser amount of fat as compared to popcorn.
Antioxidant Properties: WLS is known for its antioxidant properties, which can help protect the body against damage caused by free radicals. Popcorn also contains antioxidants, but in smaller amounts than WLS.
When it comes to preparing these snacks, there are a few things to be kept in mind. For popcorn, air-popped popcorn is the healthiest option, since it contains fewer calories and less fat than popcorn that is cooked in oil. If you prefer a little bit of oil on your popcorn, go for a healthier option such as olive or coconut oil.
In conclusion, while both WLS and popcorn are healthy snacks, WLS is the healthier option due to its higher fiber content and lower fat content. However, the difference between the two snacks is relatively small, and both can be enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.