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processed

Microwave Popcorn

+1.5

Microwave popcorn's inflammatory artificial butter flavorings and seed oils overshadow the anti-inflammatory whole grain benefits of the corn itself.

Ingredient score breakdown

Artificial butter flavor (diacetyl)

+1.2

Synthetic flavorings can trigger oxidative stress and inflammatory responses in lung and gut tissue.

Palm and partially hydrogenated oils

+0.9

Saturated and trans fats in the coating promote inflammatory eicosanoid production.

Excess sodium

+0.4

Heavy salting increases blood pressure and inflammatory markers.

Whole grain corn fiber

-1.0

Popcorn is a whole grain with substantial fiber and polyphenol antioxidants that combat inflammation.

Why this score

This score is ingredient-based and weighted by DII-inspired evidence. Foods with added sugar, refined starches, and heavy processing trend higher; foods with fiber, omega-3, and polyphenols trend lower.

FODMAP note

Low FODMAP in moderate servings (1 cup popped), though butter-flavored varieties may contain high FODMAP additives.

Healthier alternatives

  • air popped popcorn
  • rolled oats

Related foods

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