Pistachios are members of the cashew family (Anacardiaceae) and are historically the oldest nuts that have been eaten for centuries. They tend to grow in dry areas with warm climates. The name pistachio comes from the Greek word "Pistakion", which means green walnut. They are surrounded by a hard white outer skin and a thin layer of reddish skin around the green kernels. Pistachios are a Middle Eastern and Central Asian delicacy. They are carried in clusters and are mainly pollinated by the wind. Pistachios are 1.5 to 2 cm long and spherical. The hard covering around the core tends to split on one side without leaving a green core. Turkey, Iran, Lebanon, Afghanistan, and a little north of the Caucasus in Russia are the origins of pistachios. Pistachios are rich in antioxidants such as flavonoids, carotenoids, lutein, zeaxanthin, anthocyanins, and procyanidins. They also contain vitamins B6, B1, proteins, fiber, copper, and phosphorus. Plus, they're one of many low-calorie, low-fat nuts. Therefore, pistachios have significant health benefits. For example, they aid in weight loss, promote heart health, reduce cancer risk, and more.
PISTACHIO NUTRIENTS
Antioxidant-rich, anti-inflammatory Antioxidants such as lutein, beta-carotene, selenium, flavonoids, procyanidins, and gamma-tocopherol are abundant in pistachios. These antioxidants protect the body from cell damage and free radicals. Furthermore, lutein, beta-carotene, and flavonoids aid in the reduction of sun damage, the prevention of age-related physical damage, and the improvement of skin tone. Pistachios can also help to prevent heart inflammation. Heart disease and other cardiovascular illnesses can be caused by inflammation. Polyphenols in pistachios lower the risk of heart disease by boosting anti-inflammatory and antiplatelet qualities, as well as enhancing the lining of the heart and blood vessels. Pistachios are also high in vitamin C, a potent antioxidant. Aids in the reduction of oxidative stress and the prevention or reduction of free radical damage. As a result, it lowers inflammation and promotes healthy aging. Pistachios also include vitamin E, which nourishes and moisturizes the skin from within. They also regulate insulin levels and improve blood circulation, which can aid in the reduction of acne outbreaks. Vitamin E also aids in the prevention of inflammatory diseases such as cardiovascular disease and prostate cancer. Helps to maintain a healthy digestive system Pistachios are high in copper, manganese, vitamin B6, phosphorus, and thiamine. These minerals and nutrients assist to rebuild the microbiota the microbial environment in gastrointestinal health. The microbiota strengthens the gut, forms the intestinal epithelium, and defends against infections. It also decreases intestinal irritation and boosts metabolism. Additionally, the high fiber content of pistachios aids digestion by adding weight to the stool. It also helps with bowel motions. Pistachios produce probiotics, which are important to intestinal health. Probiotics aid in the absorption of beneficial elements such as proteins, vitamins, and minerals in the diet. They also aid in the elimination of dangerous germs in the intestines. They also serve to reduce the pH of the colon, allowing feces to flow more easily.
PISTACHIOS HEALING DISEASE
Cardiovascular health Pistachios contain good fats such as polyunsaturated and monounsaturated fats. The unsaturated fats in pistachios nourish the heart. Pistachios can also help people with diabetes and help reduce the risk of stroke. This is due to the high amount of phytosterols in pistachios. It reduces the body's absorption of dietary carbohydrates. Carbohydrates are converted into sugars in the body. Too many carbohydrates in the body can lead to high blood sugar levels. The healthy fats in pistachios help lower blood pressure in the body. In addition, they are rich in antioxidants, carotenoids, polyphenols, vitamin E, and vitamin C. All of these nutrients help improve the elasticity of blood vessels. Beneficial for Diabetics Low-GI pistachios. Low in carbs, they release less sugar into the circulation when metabolized. They also have a low glycemic index. Low-glycemic meals reduce blood sugar in type 2 diabetes. Diabetics should have 1-2 pistachio servings every other day. 30 grams of pistachios daily is healthful. Beneficial for women Pistachios also help prevent and treat PCOS in women. This is because it lowers the insulin levels in the body and balances the hormones. According to research, nuts containing PUFA and PUFA help balance insulin, androgen, and cholesterol levels. Pistachios contain healthy nutrients such as potassium, calcium, folic acid, iron, and many proteins and fibers which are essential for the healthy growth of the baby. But women should consult their doctor before consuming anything during pregnancy. Pistachios Help You Sleep Better Pistachios are rich in melatonin, a hormone released in the body that allows us to fall asleep. Melatonin is a sleep hormone that regulates our sleep-wake cycle and sleeps quality. Therefore, eating pistachios 2-3 hours before going to bed in the evening can improve sleep quality.
SIDE EFFECTS OF EATING PISTACHIOS
- May cause high blood pressure
Excessive consumption of pistachios can lead to high blood pressure. Additionally, you may experience dizziness, blurred vision, confusion, and fainting. Additionally, consuming salted pistachios increases blood sodium levels and increases your chances of developing various cardiovascular diseases, including high blood pressure.
- Can Affect the Digestive System
Fiber is plentiful in pistachios. Diarrhea, cramps, stomach pain, intestinal pain, and irritable bowel syndrome are all symptoms of eating too many pistachios. Pistachios contain fructan, which can induce stomach allergies.
- Allergies
People having tree nut allergies should avoid eating pistachios. Tree nuts allergy may result in vomiting, difficulty in swallowing, itchiness in the mouth, nasal congestion, cramps, and nausea.
- May Increase Your Chances of Getting a Kidney Stone
Oxalate and methionine are found in pistachios. When you eat too many pistachios, your body releases more oxalate and methionine. Calcium oxalate and potassium oxalate are formed when oxalate reacts with calcium and potassium. Methionine can be converted to cysteine at the same time, which might result in cystine kidney stones.
- May Indue Weight Gain
Pistachio use in excess might contribute to weight gain. This is because increasing your calorie intake by eating more pistachios each day might contribute to weight gain.
- May Increase Risk of Cancer
Pistachios that have been roasted raise the risk of cancer in the body. Pistachios roasted at high degrees can produce acrylamide, a carcinogen that promotes the growth of cancer cells in the body and raises the risk of cancer.
GENERAL EFFECTS OF PISTACHIOS ON HEALTH
Vitamin C, vitamin E, folic acid, protein, fiber, and minerals are all included in pistachios, making them a healthy snack. Furthermore, antioxidants such as flavonoids, beta-carotene, zeaxanthin, anthocyanins, and procyanidins are abundant. These nutrients can help with inflammation, cardiovascular disease prevention, sleep quality, digestion, and weight reduction. Everything, however, is only useful when consumed in moderation. As a result, consume a handful of pistachios (approximately 30 grams) every day. It has the potential to give all of the health advantages. Allergies, weight gain, cancer risk, kidney stones, digestive difficulties, and hypertension are all possible negative effects of eating too many pistachios. As a result, eating pistachios in moderation can give a slew of health advantages while avoiding the negative consequences.
PISTACHIO BENEFITS FOR WEIGHT LOSS
Nuts are an integral element of any diet for weight reduction. There is nothing better than a handful of nuts to stave off hunger around midday. The choice of nutritious and crunchy snacks might enhance satiety and minimize mindless nibbling. Walnuts, almonds, and cashews are just a few of the numerous sorts of nutritious treats. Pistachios are the most underrated and neglected of all nuts. Today, we shall discuss the need to include this nut in your diet. Not only are these nuts healthy, but they may also aid with weight reduction. The tree nuts are low in calories and provide a significant amount of protein. Pistachios are high in fiber and protein, both of which help you feel full and eat less. According to a 12-week weight reduction program research, the body mass index of participants who had 53 grams of pistachios daily between meals decreased twice as much as those who consumed 56 grams of pretzels. Those who ingested 20 percent of their daily calories from pistachios were able to drop 1.5 centimeters more off their waistlines than those who did not consume pistachios.