Feel the Various Benefits of These Pistachio Nuts
Feel the Various Benefits of These Pistachio Nuts
Despite being called a nut, pistachio nuts are actually the seeds of the Pistacia vera tree. There are a myriad of health benefits of pistachio nuts, from maintaining a normal weight to maintaining healthy blood vessels. Check out the full explanation here.
Pistachio nuts have been consumed since time immemorial because of their savory and delicious taste. Pistachios are generally consumed as a healthy snack option or can be added to other recipes, such as salads, pizza, oatmeal, or even cakes.
Pistachio Nuts Nutrient Content
You can get the benefits of pistachio nuts from their abundant nutritional content. In 28 grams or about 1 handful of pistachios there are 159 calories. In addition, pistachio nuts also contain nutrients that include:
- Fat
- Protein
- Fiber
- Carbohydrate
- Vitamins, such as vitamins B6 and B1
- Minerals, such as potassium, phosphorus, copper, and manganese
In addition to the above nutrients, pistachios also contain bioactive compounds, such as polyphenols and carotenoids, which have antioxidant activity.
Benefits of Pistachio Nuts
There are various benefits of pistachio nuts that you can get. The following are among them:
1. Maintain a normal weight
Pistachios are rich in polyphenols which are known to aid in the weight loss process. Pistachios are also an ideal healthy snack choice for those looking to lose or maintain weight.
Unlike instant snacks, when eating pistachios, you need to open the skin first. This process gives the body a chance to feel full before you overeat.
2. Lowering bad cholesterol levels
Compared to other nuts, pistachios have the lowest fat content. The fat contained in pistachios also consists of 90% unsaturated fat which is beneficial for health.
Research shows that the high monounsaturated fat content in pistachios can reduce bad cholesterol (LDL) levels. It will also benefit a lot in maintaining heart health.
3. Maintain healthy blood vessels
The high content of the amino acid L-arginine in pistachios can be converted into nitric oxide, a compound that relaxes and dilates blood vessels. That way, blood can flow smoothly and the functions of organs throughout the body are maintained
4. Maintain eye health
Pistachio nuts are also beneficial for maintaining eye health. The reason is, these nuts contain high levels of lutein and zeaxanthin, which are 2 carotenoid antioxidants that are very important for eye health.
Lutein and zeaxanthin can protect the eyes from cell damage, keep your vision sharp, and lower your risk of various eye diseases associated with aging.
5. Maintain blood sugar levels
Although higher in carbohydrates than other nuts, pistachios have a lower glycemic index, so they won't cause a spike in blood sugar.
In addition, pistachios are also rich in fiber, healthy fats, carotenoids, and phenolic compounds that are useful for controlling blood sugar levels to stay normal.
Although it has many benefits as mentioned above, you need to be careful if you are going to eat pistachios for the first time. If you are allergic to other nuts, such as almonds, cashews, and walnuts, you are more likely to be allergic to pistachios as well.
If you do not have allergies, take advantage of pistachios, for example by making them a daily snack. However, make sure not to overeat.
If you want to get the benefits of pistachio nuts but are still unsure because they have certain health conditions, you should first consult with your doctor before consuming them.
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