Why is popcorn junk food?

While popcorn kernels themselves are nutritious and a whole grain, movie theater or microwave popcorn is often loaded with unhealthy ingredients, including:

- High amounts of saturated and trans fats: These types of fats raise your cholesterol levels, increase your risk of heart disease, and can contribute to weight gain.

- Calories and sodium: Movie theater and microwave popcorn is typically high in calories from fat and carbohydrates and contains a lot of sodium, which can contribute to weight gain and high blood pressure.

- Sugar: Many flavored microwave varieties contain added sugar, increasing the calorie count and carbohydrate content.

- Chemical flavorings and artificial colors: These ingredients are not good for you and can cause health problems.