When people think of healthy foods, nuts may not be the first thing that comes to mind. However, pistachios are a nutritional powerhouse. This mighty little nut comes with big benefits.
People are often attracted to the unique green color of pistachios and love the taste once they try them. Pistachios can be eaten by themselves, added to baked goods, or included in trail mix. The benefits of organic pistachios are impressive, so every person should try these nuts today.
The Health Benefits of Pistachios
One ounce of pistachios will provide a person with protein, carbohydrates, fiber, and fat. The nuts supply a person with essential vitamins and minerals, including Vitamins B1 and B6 and phosphorus. Furthermore, they contain lutein and other antioxidants. How do these substances benefit a person’s health?
Gut Health
A person’s gut health impacts their overall health. Pistachios contain fiber that supports digestive health. Fiber helps move food through a person’s gastrointestinal tract and serves as food for the healthy bacteria living in the gut microbiome.
Immune Booster
The nutrients present in these nuts boost immune health. Copper is an antioxidant capable of fighting off free radical molecules that cause disease. The manganese in the pistachios increases the body’s natural immune response, and Vitamin B6 aids in white blood cell production. White blood cells help the body fight off infections.
Metabolic Health
Pistachios contain fewer calories than many nuts, and having to shell pistachios means a person eats fewer. They must remove the shells, which takes time, so they don’t eat as many. The shells are nature’s portion control tool. When a person eats pistachios, they feel full. The fiber and protein in the nuts also slow the digestive process, which helps regulate blood sugar and energy levels.
Heart Health
Pistachios benefit the heart in several ways. They lower a person’s low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol levels in two ways. The soluble fiber in the nuts binds to the LDL cholesterol, and the unsaturated fats in pistachios help lower cholesterol levels. The potassium present in the nuts also helps to regulate a person’s blood pressure.
Healthy Eyes
Plant compounds in pistachios boost a person’s health. The color of pistachios comes from the lutein and zeaxanthin present in the nuts. These carotenoids improve eye health outcomes.
Strong Tissues and Bones
High-quality protein is essential for tissue health, and pistachios contain the nine essential amino acids that a person’s body cannot make. Protein does more than support muscle growth and repair. It helps various tissues in the body grow, maintain, and repair themselves. The manganese found in the nuts also supports strong and healthy bones.
Cognitive Health
The human body needs Vitamin B6 for brain health and cognitive development. It may also help decrease a person’s risk of Alzheimer’s disease. Furthermore, when a person’s gut microbiome thrives, their mood and brain health improve.
How to Eat More Pistachios
Many people eat pistachios as a snack. However, they might also blend these nuts into pesto or sprinkle them on yogurt. They can be added to soups and pastas or included in trail mix. A person might even use the nuts in place of breadcrumbs when cooking.
Pistachios are a delicious treat regardless of how they are consumed. These nutritious nuts also benefit a person’s health, making them an excellent daily addition to any diet. Try to incorporate pistachios into one or more meals each day to improve overall health and wellness.