A nut has been described as a superfood which can help with weight loss and staving off dementia. According to new research the pistachio nut has a range of health benefits because they are packed with goodness including being rich in antioxidant compounds, fibre, healthy fats, and proteins,
Researchers at Penn State University found that regular consumption of pistachios in a low-fat diet can reduce LDL cholesterol (bad cholesterol) levels and improve desaturase activity, a key enzyme for synthesising essential fatty acids. This effect, combined with its richness in antioxidants, helps prevent cardiovascular diseases.
According to a study by Toronto’s Clinical Nutrition Center published in Nature magazine, pistachios have a positive impact on glycemic response after carbohydrate-rich meals. This means consuming pistachios after a meal can stabilise blood sugar levels by reducing sharp spikes.
According to the US National Library of Medicine (NLM), pistachios are rich in antioxidant compounds, fibre, healthy fats, and proteins, making them an integral ally for well-being. Its combination of fibre, proteins, and healthy fats creates satiety, helping control appetite and avoid excess calories. The NLM said that this effect, along with its low-calorie content compared to other nuts, makes pistachios ideal for those looking to maintain a healthy weight.
A study by Peking University’s Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology found that pistachios have a prebiotic effect by stimulating beneficial bacteria growth in the gut. Their high fibre content promotes butyric acid production, essential for intestinal health. The high polyphenol and antioxidant content in pistachios helps combat oxidative stress related to diseases like Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s. A Cornell University study highlights the positive impact of consuming raw pistachios to maximise these properties.
Professor Tim Spector, a nutritional scientist, has spoken about the effects of potassium in diets, and pistachios are rich in it. He said: “People who have a lot of potassium in their diet have lower blood pressures and studies have shown this is more important than salt. And so this is actually quite a major finding because this is something all of you can do. You can actually improve the potassium in your diet.” He added: “I love pistachio nuts and again, a really good source of potassium.”
Pistachio antioxidants like polyphenols and tocopherols protect cells from oxidative damage helping prevent age-related diseases. Cornell University emphasizes these effects are more potent in raw than processed pistachios.
The pistachio, fruit of the Pistacia vera tree, has a history as rich as its flavour. Originating from the mountains of the Middle East, especially regions like Syria, Iran, Turkey, and Afghanistan, it is mentioned in ancient texts and legends dating back thousands of years. In Persia, it was known as “pisteh,” a symbol of abundance and fortune revered by royalty. It is said that the Queen of Sheba considered it so valuable that she banned its consumption by commoners, reserving it only for nobility.
Since then, the pistachio has travelled the world, gaining popularity thanks to its distinctive flavour and multiple applications. In ancient Babylon, it was even associated with good omens: lovers would listen to the cracking of its shells under moonlight, believing this sound brought good luck. Today, its cultivation has spread to regions like the United States, Spain, and Australia, cementing its place in international cuisines.
This post was originally published on here
