Plus, the pistachio nutrient facts thatll have you cracking open a handful in no time.
The next time you’re craving a crunchy snack, consider reaching for pistachios.
This super satisfyinglow-carb snackis earthy, creamy, and somewhat sweet.
Photo: Tatjana Zlatkovic / Stocksy
But beyond the mouthwatering flavor and texture, pistachios pack a nutritional punch.
Learn why pistachios are some thehealthiest nutsyou can eat.
What Are Pistachios?
Botanically speaking, though, pistachio kernels aren’t true nuts; they’re actually seeds.
Think: acorns or chestnuts.)
Pistachio Nutrition
There’s no other way to say it: Pistachios are nutritional superstars.
Nuts and seeds in general are also packed with unsaturated fatty acids and pistachios are no exception.
Specifically, they’re exceptionally high in heart-healthy monounsaturated fats (i.e.
omega-6 and omega-9 fats).
Amino acids are the building blocks of protein, according to theNational Center for Biotechnology information(NCBI).
They also containchlorophyll, an antioxidant compound that gives pistachios (and plants in general) their greenish hue.
jot down 2 diabetes and cancer), explains Feller.
Promote Healthy Digestion
Pistachios might very well be your gut’s new BFF.
“Pistachios are a wonderfully satiating food due to [their] high fat content,” explains Meshulam.
Basically, fat slows down the digestion of food, thus keeping you fuller for longer.
The protein and fiber in pistachios lend a hand, too.
Help Balance Blood Sugar
Regularly eating pistachios may also help people with diabetes manage blood glucose.
The pistachio eaters also had slight drops in blood pressure, body mass index, and markers of inflammation.
Potential Risks of Pistachios
“There are no known drug interactions with pistachios,” notes Meshulam.
Still, if you’re new to the seeds, there are a few things to keep in mind.
So you might want to skip the green eat you have a fructan intolerance.
So if you’re watching your salt intake, consider opting for the unsalted varieties, suggests Agyeman.
Alternatively, you’re able to roast and season pistachios at home.
What’s more,researchsuggests that the antioxidants in the seeds stick around even after roasting.
Meaning, cooking (read: the heat) won’t destroy pistachios' disease-busting benefits.
Simply toss shelled raw pistachios with your favorite seasonings (e.g.
If your oven tends to cook food unevenly, you’re able to rotate the sheet halfway through.
Depending on how they’re processed, the nutrient content of pistachio products can vary.
In both cases, you’re left with far less fiber than you’d find in the whole seeds.
So, if you want to reap the health benefits of pistachios, consider eating the actual ingredient.
So, if you’re wondering, “what are pistachios good for?”
The answer is quite simple: Anything.
In baked goods.Treat yourself to a pistachio dessert by adding the nut tobanana breadorchocolate chip cookies.
As a crust.For a mouthwatering meal, try coating your fave protein in crushed pistachios.
Finely chop ‘em in a food processor or by hand to create a nutty alternative to breadcrumbs.
In salads.Make your nextsaladextra special with a handful of pistachios.
The nuts will add flavor, texture, and protein to boot.
In pesto.Take a tip from Agyeman and use pistachios in your next batch of homemade pesto.
