The great energy of small Pistachios

What are Pistachios?

Pistachios are one of the oldest edible nuts and are commonly used in cooking and as snacks worldwide. Pistachio nuts belong to the Anacardiaceae family from the genus Pistacia, and a tree takes about 10 to 12 years to produce the first crop. Pistachio nuts are not seasonal and are available all year long.

Health Benefits of Pistachios

The major health benefits of pistachios include:

1.Potential Antioxidant Properties

Even the shells of pistachios are found to contain a considerable amount of antioxidants, as per a study published in the Journal of Food Chemistry. Antioxidants may neutralize the free radicals that form in the body after cellular metabolism and increase the risk of conditions like cancer and heart disease. 

May Promote Heart Health

Consuming pistachios regularly as part of a balanced diet can decrease the levels of LDL (bad) cholesterol in the body. The antioxidants, phytosterols, and unsaturated fatty acids are great for promoting a healthy heart. The nuts are also a potent source of an amino acid called l-arginine, which may prevent the hardening of arteries and the formation of blood clots.

2.Weight Management

They are an optimal choice of people who are dieting. Pistachios, with their lower calories, high protein, low saturated fat, and high unsaturated fats, are a perfect contender for ideal weight management. Researchers from the Center for Human Nutrition, California have confirmed its weight management properties. 

3.May Prevent Macular Disease or AMD

Pistachios contain carotenoid antioxidants such as lutein and zeaxanthin. These antioxidants help in reducing the risk of contracting an age-related macular disease in the elderly, as per the American Optometric Association.

May Aid in Digestion

One of their other health benefits is that they are a good source of dietary fiber, which aids in smooth digestion. A serving of about one ounce or 30 grams of pistachios contains about 3 grams of dietary fiber, more than enough to get your digestive tracts working at optimum capacity.

4.May Aid in Skin Care

Pistachios may also help in eliminating dryness from the skin. Healthy fatty acid content plays a major role in this aspect. The fat also acts as a good carrier or base oil as it is used as an ingredient in traditional therapies like aromatherapy and traditional massage therapy.

5.Potentially Anti-inflammatory

The presence of vitamin A, E and other vitamins possess potentially anti-inflammatory properties, meaning that incorporation of pistachios in the healthy diet help in reducing inflammation in almost any part of the body. 

6.Potential Neuroprotective

The possibly high amount of vitamin B6 present in pistachios helps in building the amino acids essential in transmitting nerve impulses. Thus, it can also play a crucial role in maintaining a healthy nervous system. 

7.May Boost Immunity

Pistachios aid in boosting immunity due to the rich source of vitamin B6 present in them. They aid in building a strong immune system and helps in protecting the body against various infections.

Source:Organic Facts