Popcorn vs. Fruits and Vegetables
In a surprising twist, a 2012 study out of the University of Scranton in Pennsylvania revealed that popcorn contains more polyphenols than your regular fruits and vegetables. Polyphenols are micronutrients that play a vital role in preventing degenerative diseases, such as cancer and cardiovascular conditions.
Now, before you chuck that salad off the table and rush to the movies with a clear conscience, keep in mind that fruits and vegetables still reign supreme. They offer a broader array of vitamins, minerals, and phytonutrients compared to popcorn. However, this doesn't mean you should ignore the humble popcorn entirely. It can be a valuable part of a balanced and healthy diet.
Popcorn's Surprising Impact on Erections
Erections are all about hydraulics – blood flow through the intricate network of blood vessels and capillaries in your manhood. The more efficient the flow and hydraulic pressure, the mightier your erection, casting an impressive shadow on the townspeople below.
But when blood vessels constrict, things don't quite stand up. It's like trying to wash your car while someone's messing with the hose. Nitric oxide, a chemical in the body, acts as the key to un-kinking the hose. It helps blood vessels relax and allows blood to flow freely, making an erection possible.
Nitric oxide also happens to be a central neurotransmitter in the body, affecting pleasure and satisfaction. So, it plays a pivotal role in satisfying sexual experiences.
Enter popcorn. It contains the amino acid L-arginine, roughly half a gram for every 3 ounces of popcorn. And L-arginine happens to be the biological precursor of nitric oxide. While it won't replace erectile dysfunction medications, popcorn might just help optimize blood flow when it's needed most.
The Testosterone Boost from Popcorn
Whether it's their active lifestyles, increased perspiration, or overall vitality, many American athletes tend to run low on vital minerals, including zinc and magnesium. Both of these minerals are crucial for maintaining healthy testosterone levels, free testosterone, and overall sexual function.
The good news is that popcorn contains both zinc and magnesium. While the zinc content in popcorn might not seem exceptionally high at first glance (a four-cup serving provides around 10% of the recommended daily allowance), it's in a highly absorbable form. Additionally, that same serving of popcorn contains about 43 grams of magnesium. Magnesium not only helps maintain optimal testosterone levels but also plays a role in the metabolism of nitric oxide, adding some extra oomph to your erections.
Popcorn's Low Glycemic Load
The glycemic load of a food item measures its impact on blood glucose levels for a given quantity. Popcorn shines in this department because its glycemic load is impressively low. Although popcorn has a relatively high glycemic index (70), its glycemic load is just 8 due to the typically low carbohydrate content per serving. However, keep in mind that the larger the container you're using starts resembling a horse's feed bag, the less this benefit applies.
Avoid Microwave Popcorn
You know that distinctive popping sound of kernels in the microwave? Well, every time a microwave popcorn kernel bursts, an angel's testicle ruptures. Some microwave popcorn bags contain a chemical called perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA), known to dampen your sex drive and potentially contribute to testicular cancer and immune suppression in children.
For a healthier popcorn option, try this:
- Place four tablespoons of plain kernels into a brown paper lunch bag.
- Fold the bag's top a few times.
- Microwave on high for about 2 minutes, or until the popping slows or stops (microwave times may vary).
- Season to taste and, for the full Whole Foods shopper experience, sprinkle it with yeast for a cheesy flavor (the vegan B-12 source).
