Want to live to 100? Surprising snack from your local store may help
Photo: Why popcorn can extend your life (Freepik)
A simple and affordable product may become a powerful ally for health and longevity. TikTok longevity expert Dan Buettner explains which supermarket food could help extend your life.
The snack that may help you live longer
Dan Buettner, an expert on so-called Blue Zones (regions of the world where people live the longest and suffer less from chronic diseases), named a snack that almost anyone can afford. It is popcorn.
The 64-year-old National Geographic researcher and bestselling author believes that popcorn, prepared without oil, is one of the best snack options for people who care about their health and dream of living to 100.
Why popcorn is considered healthy
According to Buettner, popcorn has several key benefits. First of all, it is a whole-grain food rich in fiber and complex carbohydrates. These help keep you full longer and support healthy digestion.
Popcorn also contains polyphenols — plant compounds with antioxidant properties. They can improve blood circulation and may reduce the risk of certain diseases.
Experts at BBC Good Food also note that regular consumption of whole grains is associated with a lower risk of cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and some types of cancer. At the same time, most people consume far less fiber than recommended, even though it is crucial for digestive health.
A smart option for weight control
Popcorn is relatively low in calories while still being filling, making it a good choice for people trying to manage their weight. However, experts stress that its health benefits largely depend on how it is prepared.
The healthiest option is popcorn with no added butter or oil. For flavor, herbs or spices such as paprika or cinnamon can be used.
Sweetened or buttery versions quickly lose their advantages. For example, a small pack of butter-flavored microwave popcorn can contain more than 10% of the recommended daily salt intake, as well as significant amounts of saturated fat.
Another longevity food
Buettner also highlights another key dietary component — legumes. According to him, adding one cup of cooked beans to the daily diet may be linked to an increase in life expectancy of about four years. Legumes are rich in fiber, complex carbohydrates, and plant-based protein, making them especially valuable for a balanced diet.
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