Pistachio Nuts

Pistachios are a small tree nut with green flesh and a light coloured shell. They are among the most nutritious of nuts you can choose and are packed with many health benefits. Include some in your daily diet to avail of these beneficial effects.

Health Benefits of Pistachios

B6 - Pistachios are an excellent source of vitamin B6, containing as much as beef liver. Vitamin B6 is important in the development of antibodies within the immune system and it also assists with healthy nerve function and the production of red blood cells. Vitamin B6 is also beneficial to women, as it has shown promise in areas of reproductive health

Heart-Healthy Fats - Pistachios are a good source of monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats. These fats reduce blood cholesterol levels and lower risk of heart disease when they replace saturated fats in the diet.

Fibre --Pistachio nuts are a good source of fibre. Fibre is needed for the healthy functioning of the digestive system and may help decrease the risk of heart disease and diabetes. Men should aim to consume 30 to 38 g of fibre and women 21 to 25 g of fibre daily.

Protein --If you are looking to replace animal protein with vegetable protein, pistachios eaten in conjunction with protein-rich grains, vegetables, and fruits, can help you to add protein to your diet. Pistachio nuts are an excellent source of vegetable protein.

Copper - Pistachios are an excellent source of copper. Copper is important in the formation of connective tissue

Anti-oxidants--Oxidative stress can cause damage to the human body, resulting in diseases such as cancer and heart disease. Dietary antioxidants help to reduce the damage. Pistachios contain phenolic compounds, which are believed to account for the antioxidant capability of certain foods. The pistachio nut is placed in the highest group for antioxidants.

Carotenoids -Pistachios are the only nut to contain a significant amount of the carotenoids lutein and zeaxanthin. These carotenoids have been linked in the reduced risk of developing macular degeneration, a condition that can results to blindness in people aged 65 and above.

Phytosterols--Pistachios are also rich in plant sterols. Current research suggests that phytosterols may lower the absorption of dietary cholesterol from other foods. In fact, plant sterols are now being added to foods because of this beneficial effect. Pistachios and sunflower seeds have the highest phytosterol content of commonly eaten foods.