The cashew family (Anacardiaceae) includes the pistachio tree, whose edible seeds are cultivated in arid regions of warm to moderate temperatures.
Let us explore a few health benefits of pistachios backed by research and some factors to consider while incorporating this superfood into your diet.
Origin of Pistachio
- Iran is thought to be the native, origin of the pistachio.
- It is commonly grown everywhere, from Afghanistan to California and the Mediterranean region.
- National Pistachio Day is celebrated on February 26 every year.
- Pistachios arrived in the US in the 1800s, but it took another 100 years to become widely used in cooking and popular.
- The colour of the kernels can vary from yellow to various degrees of green. Typically, they measure half an inch in diameter and an inch in length. You need to crack its hard shell open before you can taste it.
Health Benefits of Pistachios
Healthy Snacks
Nuts and seeds are the healthiest and tastiest way to add the perfect crunch and flavour to your munchies. These little superfoods keep your digestive system in check, satisfy your desires, and provide the body with vital minerals.
Rich in nutrients
Vital nutrients are abundant in pistachios. The body needs vitamin B6, especially for the metabolism of proteins and the development of cognitive function.
All nine necessary amino acids are present in pistachios. Pistachios have a delicious flavour in addition to being aesthetically pleasing.
According to new American medical studies, their green-hued Pistachio kernels have a moderate sweetness that may be very important in controlling metabolic syndrome.
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Pistachios are a mainstay of the Mediterranean diet, connected to general long-term health and other nuts.
Better Eye health
Of all nuts, pistachios contain the highest concentrations of zeaxanthin and lutein, which shield your eyes from macular degeneration and blue light damage. As you age, this eye condition may result in visual loss.
Pistachios For Weight loss
Consuming pistachios could aid in weight loss as well. Because they are high in protein and fibre, they help you feel full and may encourage you to eat less.
Low in calories
Because pistachios are among the lowest-calorie nuts, consumers may easily stick to their daily calorie limitations while reaping nuts’ health advantages. Consuming pistachios has been linked to lower insulin levels, which helps balance type 2 diabetes.
According to Vanderbilt University Medical Center research, eating pistachios daily can help prevent metabolic syndrome.
Packed with Antioxidants
Antioxidants are important compounds for overall health. Keeping the body’s cells safe lowers the chance of cancer and other illnesses.
Antioxidant molecules are found in nuts and seeds. However, pistachios may contain more antioxidants than other nuts.
Controls Diabetes
Pistachio consumption was associated with decreased insulin levels, thus aiding in preventing type 2 diabetes.
Researchers also noted that pistachios enhance the body’s efficient utilization of fat for energy, contributing positively to overall health.
Pistachois for Skin Health
Pistachios improve the suppleness of skin while moisturizing and nourishing it. The high concentration of fatty acids is the cause of the same.
Because of its high vitamin E content, it also eliminates dryness. This anti-ageing ingredient gives the skin a youthful, naturally rejuvenated appearance. A massage with pistachio oil is also very beneficial.
Protects from UV rays
Pistachio consumption creates a natural sun barrier that shields you from the sun’s damaging UV rays. This protects the skin’s cell membranes from damage by free radicals and maintains the skin’s suppleness and smoothness.
Beneficial for gut health
Because nuts are high in fibre, they help move food through the gut and avoid constipation, which promotes a healthy digestive system.
Pistachios improve the body’s effective use of fat as fuel, which is beneficial to general health.
Healthy Fats
Nutritious lipids found in pistachios help maintain a healthy heart. This lowers the risk of stroke and other heart-related illnesses. It also enhances digestion, our general way of living in terms of health and beauty, and strengthens the body’s defences against internal and external free radicals.
Rich in E Vitamin
Pistachios are effective in lowering cholesterol. Thus, it prevents heart disease. Pistachios reduce overeating in general and regulate the body’s calorie intake.
Eating a bowl of pistachios daily lowers cholesterol and calorie intake. Pistachios are also a great source of vitamin E, which is known to help the body eliminate harmful cholesterol and allow blood to flow smoothly.
Wrap Up
Pistachios offer various health advantages, including the potential to lower the risk of diseases linked to poor nutrition, promote an active lifestyle, and preserve excellent health.
Pistachios are rich in protein, fibre, monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fatty acids, and other essential vitamins and minerals.
They also contain a range of phytochemicals, which are plant-based components that may support overall health and well-being.
Here are the myriad health benefits of pistachios, from heart health to weight management and beyond.
Watch the video on benefits of Pistachios
Frequently Asked Questions
1.Are pistachios safe to eat when pregnant?
A pregnant woman’s diet must include nuts, and pistachios are no exception. The explanation is that pistachios are a great source of antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals supporting immunity and oxygenating blood cells. All pregnancies are unique, though. Seeing a doctor before beginning a diet on your own is preferable.
2.What would happen if my pistachio intake became excessive?
A. Anything in excess will inevitably cause problems. Consuming pistachios is not any different. Abdominal pain, indigestion, bloating, constipation, and the opposite of all its positive effects can result from consuming too much of it. Snack, but do not overindulge.
3. In what amount should I consume pistachios each day?
Try to consume 1 ounce daily. (It is roughly a handful.) Alternatively, if you are more of a counter take about 9-10 pistachios.
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