Pistachios were regarded as a rare delicacy for thousands of years, but they are now a common necessity. According to the findings of a Cornell University study, this multifaceted, green superfood has the highest levels of antioxidants compared to those of many foods that are commonly known for their capacity for antioxidants, such as blueberries, pomegranates, cherries, and beets.
American pistachios have many advantages, including the potential to support an active lifestyle, lower the risk of diseases related to nutrition, and aid in the maintenance of good health.
American pistachios are a complete protein source with all 9 amino acids which aids in anti-ageing, and mental and physical health, promoting better skin and hair. A multifaceted superfood which is a must-have in one’s fitness journey. It is the best plant-based complete protein fulfilling one’s nutritional needs. This makes them perfect for people who want a more plant-based diet. Research conducted and published in 2020 had shown that California-grown pistachios are a complete protein.
Not only are pistachios a source of many essential vitamins and minerals, monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fatty acids, protein and fibre, but pistachios also provide an array of phytochemicals, a wide variety of compounds made by plants that may help to promote health and well-being.
One serving of pistachios (1 oz or 49 kernels) is an excellent source of copper and a good source of protein, fibre, vitamin B6, phosphorus and thiamin.
It’s time to celebrate this popular nut, a powerhouse of antioxidants. Below are various health benefits of American Pistachios that one must know this National Pistachio Day, celebrated all across on 26th February:
Heart Health: Researchers also looked at various studies that examined the effects of pistachios on heart disease. Many of the studies found that diets that include pistachios tend to be linked to significantly lowered cholesterol and blood pressure levels, even for those who are at high risk of diabetes. Research suggests that these benefits may be due, in part, to the pistachios’ protein, fibre, and lower fat content when compared to other nuts. Pistachios also have the highest phytosterol content among nuts, which appear to help lower blood cholesterol levels by:
- decreasing the absorption of cholesterol in the intestines during digestion and
- reducing the amount of cholesterol produced by the body.
Blood Sugar Management: In recent years there has been an increase in the number of studies showing the potential benefits of eating nuts, including pistachios, on blood glucose and insulin sensitivity. Research published in Diabetes Care shows that including pistachios as part of a balanced diet is a sound strategy to help lower the risk of developing type 2 diabetes. The research suggests that pistachios may have glucose- and insulin-lowering effects and promote a healthier metabolic profile in people with Prediabetes.
Immunity Booster: Nuts, like pistachios, provide the body with vital vitamins, minerals, antioxidants and phytochemicals (active compounds found in plants) to support the immune system. The immune system is the first line of defence against infections. A healthy immune system aids in the healing process and shortens recovery time.
Eye Health: Pistachios contain approximately 13 times more lutein and zeaxanthin (carotenoids) than the next highest nut. High amounts of these carotenoids are found in the retina of the eye and are known to benefit eye health, which may help prevent vision loss associated with ageing.
Weight Management: Pistachios are one of the lowest-calorie nuts with only 160 calories in a single ounce, which is the equivalent of about 49 pistachios. Researchers recently discovered that eating as much as 20% of calories from pistachios may not lead to weight gain, but it may provide the added benefit of improving blood pressure, among other perks. Emerging research shows that people with extra body weight can benefit from eating pistachios – those who munched on pistachios lost weight and improved their triglyceride levels (blood fats).
The High Council of France’s public health recommends the daily consumption of a small handful of nuts. This recommendation is based on scientific data that highlights the health benefits of nuts, including pistachios, in terms of diet quality, weight management and cardiometabolic risk reduction.
Pistachios are nutrient-dense foods containing protein, fibre, phytosterols, and antioxidants and are naturally cholesterol-free. California-grown pistachios have a high monounsaturated fatty acid content (53% of total fat) and a high unsaturated/saturated fat ratio of 7.4:1.
Contributed by: American Pistachio Growers https://americanpistachios.in/