pistachio has been used as a food source for 300,000 years and is one of the most popularly consumed nuts in the world. Pistachios have a slightly sweet taste and tender texture and are commonly enjoyed as a snack and used in recipes such as desserts and salads.
Eating these protein-rich nuts has been associated with a number of health benefits, from reducing blood pressure levels to protecting against cognitive decline.
Here’s everything you need to know about pistachios benefits.
- Highly Nutritious
As it contains calories, carbs, copper, fiber, fat, protein, phosphorus, thiamine, vitamin B6, and manganese, pistachio kernels are among the most nutritious nuts. Therefore, it is recommended to include a small portion of them in your diet and other nutritious foods.
- High in Protein , Low in Calories
Basically, meeting the protein needs of the body is associated with overeating and consuming more calories. However, including pistachios in your diet makes it easier to get the protein you need without piling on extra calories. These nuts are one of the few snacks that achieve this goal.
- Lower blood pressure and cholesterol levels
Pistachios have been shown to have cholesterol-lowering effects. These nuts have fiber and high quantities of polyunsaturated and monounsaturated fats, all of which are linked to healthy cholesterol levels and reduced risk of heart disease. And research shows that eating pistachios – especially when compared to eating other nuts – results in lower blood pressure.
- Better eye health
Pistachios have the highest levels of zeaxanthin and lutein among nuts, both of which protect your eyes from damage caused by blue light as well as macular degeneration, an eye disease that can cause vision loss as you age.
- Better sleep
Pistachios help you sleep better by having protein, vitamin B6 and magnesium. However, avoid overdosing on pistachios.
- Anti-inflammatory
Pistachios contain strong antioxidant compounds including tocopherols, phylloquinone, carotenoids, chlorophyll and flavonoids. Research shows that polyphenols and flavonoids are widely present in all parts of pistachio nuts and also have anti-inflammatory properties.
- Heart health
Pistachios are a good source of healthy unsaturated fats that help reduce heart disease.
Pistachios contain several antioxidants including vitamin E, selenium and phenolic compounds. Phenolic compounds help protect your blood vessels from oxidative damage and inflammation, promote healthy blood pressure, and reduce the risk of stroke and heart attack.
- Weight management
Pistachios are a rich source of protein and fiber that supports metabolic health and helps in weight loss and weight maintenance.
- Good for diabetics
Pistachios help reduce blood sugar levels and have a low glycemic index value.
Low glycemic index foods are recommended for type 2 diabetes because they release low blood sugar and lower blood sugar levels.
- Eliminates hair dryness and brittleness
Consuming pistachios can be very beneficial for hair. This popular nut is rich in biotin, which fights hair loss. In addition, pistachios help to nourish dry hair and increase the flexibility of hair strands. Also, the fatty acids in pistachios are very useful for hair root growth.
