Pistachios Offer Multiple Health Benefits
The health benefits of nuts have been demonstrated in many studies. In general, nuts have been shown to help support a healthy heart and to be a source of both protein and fiber, along with many other important vitamins, minerals and phytonutrients. But all nuts are not created equal.
Pistachios are a delicious, nutrient- packed snack food that has more than 15 important nutrients, including antioxidants, fiber and vegetable protein.
Pistachios are an excellent source of copper and manganese, and a good source of phosphorus. They’re also an excellent source of vitamin B6, offering 20% of the Daily Value per serving. In addition to vitamin B6, pistachios are a good source of thiamin (15% DV) and have lesser amounts of other B vitamins, such as folate and biotin at 4% DV, and riboflavin, niacin, and pantothenic acid at 2% DV.
Healthy heart
Pistachios help in reducing bad cholesterol, LDL and increases good cholesterol, HDL in the body thus preventing heart diseases. It also increases strength of the nerves making heart stronger.
Anti-inflammation properties
Pistachio benefits include the presence of vitamin A, vitamin E and anti-inflammatory properties reducing the inflammation in the body caused due to any problems.
Good for Colon Health
Being a good source of dietary fiber, eating pistachios in reasonable amounts can benefit the smooth functioning of the colon. Dietary fiber in daily diet ensures proper bowel movement. Intake of pistachios that contain good amount of fiber will ensure that the bowel functions correctly.
Prevents diabetes
60% of the daily required phosphorous is present in a cup of pistachios which can prevent even type-2 diabetes. Also phosphorous in pistachios helps in breaking down proteins into amino acids resulting in glucose tolerance.
Haemoglobin and blood
Vitamin B6 is the protein that helps in carrying oxygen in the blood. The high quantity of B6 in pistachios if taken daily can increase the oxygen quantity in the blood and increase the haemoglobin count in it.
Pistachios Supply Minerals
Half a cup of pistachios can supply adequate quantities of some of the most important minerals required by the body like Calcium, Iron, Magnesium and Copper! It's especially well stocked with calcium and iron, which are minerals playing very important roles in the body.
Nervous system
Vitamin B6 is present in high concentration in pistachios which is very beneficial to nervous system. Amines are the messaging molecules in the nervous system. In order to develop, they need amino acids which are dependent on vitamin B6 presence in the body. This vitamin builds a sheath called myelin around the nerve fibers. And messages pass via Nerve fibers from one nerve to another. Vitamin B6 helps in building many amino acids which help in proper transmission of nerve impulses.
Reduces Stress Reaction
Pistachio consumption reduces the stress related, elevated blood pressure levels, by as much as 10%. This is one of the most important pistachio nutrition facts, you will come across.
Macular degeneration
Macular degeneration is an age related eye disease which slowly reduces the eye vision making adults unable to read and work properly. It makes them unable to recognize people as well. Free radicals attack the cells and damage them resulting in macular degeneration. Lutein and Zeaxanthin are two anti-oxidants that are found in Pistachios which fight against these free radicals and destroy them preventing the cells from damage and thus preventing macular degeneration.
Boosts immunity
Vitamin B6 is very important for a healthy immune system. This helps in building blood and proper blood supply throughout the body.
Healthy brain
Vitamin B6, that is present in high quantity in pistachios helps in increasing the haemoglobin count in the blood. This oxygen rich blood is then supplied to the brain making it even more active.
Healthy glands
Glands like spleen, thymus, etc become healthier and work properly with good supply of blood containing more white blood cells (WBC) that is required to fight against infections.
Healthy skin
Vitamin E is very essential for a healthy skin and this anti-oxidant is present in pistachios. It integrates the cell membranes of the mucous membranes of the skin membranes. It protects skin from harmful UV rays, prevents from skin diseases and makes skin healthy and more beautiful.
Anti-ageing
Vitamin E present in pistachios is helps fight ageing process of skin and making you look younger. Oil present in this nut has emollient properties helping skin to moisturize and keep it from drying. It is used as aroma oil, medicinal massage oil etc.
Prevents cancers and infections
Vitamin B6 helps in increasing the blood count. The WBC or white blood cells help in preventing infections and various cancers.
Side Effects of Pistachio Nuts
Although pistachio nuts are relatively healthful, eating too many could have side effects on your weight, blood pressure and gastrointestinal tract.
Sources:
lef.org
utrition-and-you.com
stylecraze.com
seedguides.info
Other links:
The Surprising health benefits of raisins (part 2)
Coconut Oil for Beautiful Skin and Hair (Part 2)
