Pistachio trees were introduced to the United States in the 1850s, although its original range included Central Asia, Pakistan, and India. About 950 farms in New Mexico, California, and Arizona now cultivate these plants.
Because of their mild flavour and tender texture, they are widely used as a convenient snack food and in a wide variety of other recipes.
Pistachios have the potential to play a significant role in health support due to their high protein, antioxidant, and healthy fat content.
1. Lower Cholesterol and Reduce Heart Disease
Low cholesterol is linked to pistachios. These nuts are abundant in fibre, polyunsaturated, and monounsaturated fats, which help lower cholesterol. Pistachios are rich in antioxidants and can reduce cholesterol and blood pressure, decreasing heart disease risk.
2. Lower Blood Pressure and Sugar
Pistachios have been shown to have a more significant effect on lowering blood pressure than other nuts. The phosphorous in pistachios facilitates the breakdown of proteins into amino acids, which in turn lowers blood sugar levels. In addition, consuming pistachios does not lead to significant increases in blood sugar because of their low glycemic index.
3. Improves Haemoglobin
Haemoglobin is the protein in red blood cells that transports oxygen throughout the body. Pistachios are a good source of vitamin B6, which improves haemoglobin and promotes healthy red blood cell development and circulation.
4. Helps in Weight Loss
Protein, fibre, and healthy fats all come together in a handful of pistachios to make you feel full and curb your hunger. Fiber keeps you satiated for longer and reduces calorie intake, which helps you lose weight. Pistachios boost metabolism, burning more calories. They also include protein, which boosts energy and metabolism.
5. Anti-Cancerous
Antioxidants and phytochemicals found in pistachios, such as gamma-tocopherol and resveratrol, have been linked to a reduced risk of developing certain malignancies. Furthermore, pistachios have been shown to have a beneficial impact on colon cancer.
6. Good for Eyes
Pistachios contain the greatest quantities of the antioxidants zeaxanthin and lutein among nuts; these compounds help shield the eyes from the harmful effects of blue light and age-related macular degeneration.
7. Helps in Digestion
Getting enough fibre is crucial for proper digestion. Pistachios are rich in soluble and insoluble fibres. It aids in the smooth passing of bowels and facilitates digestion. It protects against gastrointestinal problems including diarrhoea and constipation.
