One of the oldest, Pistachio’s (Pista) origin can be traced to Iraq and Iran. Nutritionally rich with a creamy subtle taste that makes it a favorite among the fitness-enthusiasts of today. Available in different forms like shelled, unshelled, salted or roasted. It is recommended to use the unshelled raw pistachios as processing the nuts robs them of some of their beneficial nutrients.
NUTRITIONAL PROFILE
The nutrient dense nature of the nuts is worth a view. Pistachios contain proteins, carbohydrates, dietary fibre, healthy fats, minerals like iron, potassium, phosphorous, magnesium, copper, manganese and zinc. It is a storehouse of Vitamins like A, C, E, K, B-Complex Vitamins like beta-carotene, zeaxanthin, riboflavin, folate and niacin making it a healthy option for many.
HEALTH BENEFITS
Here are a few health benefits of Pistachios:
1 . Promote Heart Health
Pistachios are known to lower the harmful LDL cholesterol and enhances the HDL or good cholesterol levels in our blood. The anti-oxidants present in the nuts reverse the damage to our arteries and prevents accumulation of plaque in them, thereby preventing heart diseases.
2 . Boost immunity
Vitamin B6, intrinsic to the wellness of our immune system, is found in abundance in the Pistachios. It increases the production of haemoglobin, which constitutes the oxygen carrying Red-blood cells in our body. Alongside it also stimulates the Thymus gland thereby ensuring protection against infections.
3 . Delay Skin-ageing
Along with antioxidants Vitamin C & E, the Vitamin B6 content of Pistachios comes handy in keeping the skin moist and healthy. These reverse the effect of cell-damaging free radicals thereby maintaining its youthful glow. The healthy fats of the nut prevents dryness and wrinkles from appearing.
4 . Aid Weight Management
For those looking to shed a few kilos, the pistachio is the nut of choice. Its fat content is largely mono-unsaturated in nature thus does not accumulate in the body. Its dietary fibre content keeps the appetite in check thereby preventing food-indulgence.
5 . Maintain Eye Sight
Lutein and Zeaxanthin, the two antioxidants that fights oxidation caused by free radicals, also acts as anti-inflammatory compounds and protect the eyes against diminished vision.
6 . Prevent Cancer
The high concentration of anti-oxidants like Vitamin C and Vitamin E in Pistachios counter the oxidative cell damage caused by free radicals. Recent studies show the nut can effectively inhibit cancer of the lung, prostrate, breast and skin.
Ways To Use
-Can be consumed raw in the morning on an empty stomach or as a snack in between meals.
-Also used extensively in cooking especially in rice dishes, sweets and bakery items.
-Add chopped pistachios to salads
So, go ahead and add this nut to your daily diet in different ways and reap its countless benefits. Eat Healthy, Stay Happy!