Snack Celebration: National Popcorn Day

Which snack food counts as a whole grain and is high in fiber while keeping its calorie-count low? You guessed it -- popcorn!

And today, America celebrates this super snack food with National Popcorn Day. Of course, popping this snack isn't limited to only today. Over the course of the year, Americans consume 16 billion quarts of popcorn (the average American eats about 54 quarts), according to the non profit Popcorn Board, which represents the industry. So while it may be a mystery why January 19 is the holiday for this national snack food, we'll embrace it and pop a bag for good measure -- guilt free!

Popcorn done right is a dieter's best friend. Air-popped popcorn has only 31 calories per cup, according to The Popcorn Board, and oil-popped popcorn has only 55 calories per cup. And besides its low calorie count, popcorn is a source of antioxidants and fiber, as well as a whole grain just like whole wheat bread and brown rice.

Nutritionist and That's Fit's Recipe Rehab columnist Tanya Zuckerbrot adds to popcorn's praises. In addition to being high in fiber, "popcorn also contains protein and B vitamins, adding to its nutritional benefits," she said. "Air-popped popcorn is the best way to enjoy popcorn as a low calorie snack; 97 percent fat-free and 100 calorie packs are also great options. To spice up the flavor, but avoid the unwanted calories, try butter topping spray or opt for a seasoning like that of Kernel Season's."

Of course, like anything, not all popcorn is created equal. "Movie theater popcorn is by far the worst offender, and should be avoided by all those looking to cut calories," said Zuckerbrot. Movie popcorn -- slathered with butter, salt and artificial flavors -- even in its smallest portion size has a whopping 670 calories, with each squirt of extra butter adding another 130 calories. "A medium un-buttered popcorn at the movies adds up to an astonishing 950 calories," she added. "Decide to supersize to a large, and you're looking at over 1200 calories. For those on a diet, I recommend sticking to air-popped and fat-free varieties, as well as well as 100 calorie packs. The key to enjoying popcorn without sabotaging your diet? Portion size."

So today, celebrate National Popcorn Day the air-popped way, and season it lightly with salt.

While popcorn may be one of the tastiest (and healthiest) snacks, it's not the only one. Find out what your favorite celebs are snacking on.