Pistachios, also commonly known as ‘pista’ are not nuts but seeds from the pistachio tree. Offering innumerable health benefits, they are used to garnish sweets and savouries and also to make healthy foods.
Pista are enclosed in a hard shell. The kernels are approximately half an inch in diameter and an inch long. To eat the pista, you shall have to first open the hard shell. The kernels range from yellow to shades of green.
Available as shelled, unshelled, roasted or salted, they are an excellent source of various nutrients, proteins, and antioxidants.
# Boosts eye healthPistachios contain high amounts of lutein and zeaxanthin, which prevents vision complaints such as cataracts and age-related macular degeneration.
Pistachios being rich in zinc prevents poor night vision.
The healthy fatty acids and Vitamin E present in pistachios boosts eye health and enhances vision.
# Promotes healthy gut1. The high amounts of fibre present in Pistachios help in strengthening the digestive system and prevents constipation.
2. The fats, proteins, and antioxidants contents of pista make it an excellent food for the gut.
# Lowers blood sugar levels1. Consumption of pistachio increases the levels of peptide 1, a hormone that regulates glucose levels in diabetes.
2. The fiber, healthy fats, antioxidants, carotenoids, and phenolic compounds present in pistachios are all beneficial for control of blood sugar levels.
# Combats inflammationThe bioactives and the monounsaturated fats found in pistachios have a role in combating inflammation.
# Beneficial during pregnancy and breastfeedingPistachios contain numerous nutrients that are essential during pregnancy. Pistachios also benefit breastfeeding mothers due to their rich nutrient content.
# Other possible benefitsPista produces numerous health benefits, apart from the health benefits mentioned above, it also produces few more such as promotes heart health, delays premature ageing, boosts the immune system, keeps the blood vessels supple, helpful for weight loss, reduces colon cancer risk, lowers cholesterol and blood pressure, boosts cognitive function, and enhances sexual health.