There’s a new guy (okay, well, sorta – all things old become new, you know?) on the block with a huge health boost for you. This item offers you twice – TWICE! – the antioxidants of fruit.

I know – you’re anxiously awaiting the info with bated breath now. What is this wonder food? Does it cost a fortune because it’s imported from the tropical rain jungle of Bora Bora? How do I get it? Does it come in a pill promoted by the latest medical guru? Will it taste disgusting? Will it create world peace? Oops, sorry … got off on a tangent there.

Here are your answers, not in order: Nope, it costs pennies. Couldn’t get much less expensive. It’s probably grown in your virtual backyard. Nope, it’s not in a pill, and dog forbid it ever is. Eat; enjoy!

What’s the twice-the-antioxidants-of-fruit wonder food? Popcorn! Yeah, really! Gosh, I love this health stuff. I can eat popcorn, and feel all – hey, look at how I’m taking care of my health! And so can you – high five!

The deets: Earlier research already had noted that there were antioxidants in popcorn. Called polyphenols, they help protect you against heart disease and cancer. These are diluted up to 90 percent in fruits due to the high water content. In popcorn, though, they are much more concentrated since popcorn is only 4 percent water. So, per serving, you get a much higher dose. In addition, you get a good amount of whole grain fiber, which is awesome for your innards.

So, yes, of course, if you eat movie theater popcorn (just say no!) or drown your healthy popcorn in other junk, you’re going to be killing off its benefits. Healthy popcorn that tastes tons better than movie theater popcorn can be made at home. Either buy an old fashioned popcorn popper that you use on your stove or do this: Put around a quarter of a cup of popcorn kernels in a brown paper lunch bag. Fold over the top, and put in the microwave for around 2-3 minutes on high. Monitor the popping as microwaves are so variable! When the popping even begins to slow, get that bag out, open carefully, and pour into a bowl so it can immediately stop cooking. Top with a BIT of what you love! Just don’t go overboard, and skip any chemical junk. Oh, and skip the regular microwave popcorn, too. Make it yourself, and you’ll get pure popcorn sans the chemicals that are in packaged microwave popcorn. You’ll boost your health; save your health; and save money!