Why is pistachio good for your health?

The original pistachios from Bronte are among the richest fruits in nature with beneficial properties thanks to the context in which they grow. In fact, the lava soil of Sicily and the peculiar weather conditions create a perfect microclimate to generate a unique product from different points of view. The pistachios from Bronte consist of 2% water, 24% protein, 50.6% fat, 10.3% fiber and 4.7% sugar. The minerals present in greater quantities in the pistachios are calcium, iron, phosphorus, magnesium, potassium, manganese and copper. Among the most abundant vitamins we find those of group B (especially B1 and B6) and vitamins A, C, E, K and folate. Pistachios are also rich in antioxidants, which counteract free radicals responsible for oxidative damage and cellular aging. In greater concentration there are beta-carotene, lutein and zeaxanthin.

1. Lower bad cholesterol

Thanks to the content of phytosterols, and of monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats, pistachios are able to reduce the levels of bad cholesterol in the blood thereby decreasing the risk of cardiovascular disease. Bad cholesterol is also reduced by the presence of fibers.

2. Protect the heart

The consumption of pistachios is useful for the health of the heart  thanks to the presence of gamma-tocopherol. This substance is a form of Vitamin E that has a slight vasodilating action, protects the capillary walls and also has an antithrombotic action. The protective action on the heart is also, of course, due to the reductive action on cholesterolemia.

3. Anticancer superfood

The high content of antioxidants in pistachios ensures that their regular consumption can provide very important help in the fight against tumors, in particular by preventing them. Antioxidants, in fact, protect cells from free radicals that cause oxidative damage at the base of cancer formation.

4. Protect the sight

Lutein and zeaxanthin are carotenoids contained in pistachios that protect the eyes and prevent the onset of visual problems, improving eye health. Zeaxanthin would support the welfare of the retina, especially the macula (the central area of the retina of the human eye).

5. Keep the nervous system healthy

Pistachios have a high content of vitamin B6 or pyridoxine which is essential for some functions of the nervous system. This vitamin, in fact, is essential to synthesize myelin, a structure that protects the nervous system and allows communication between neurons.

6. Protect the skin

Vitamin E contained in pistachios is a powerful antioxidant that protects the skin from damage from UV radiation, thus counteracting aging. Furthermore, the saturated fats present are ideal for those with dry skin.

7. Counteract type 2 diabetes

 According to some studies, the regular consumption of pistachios allows lowering fasting glucose levels in prediabetic subjects. In a study carried out in 2014, a diet rich in pistachios (54 grams per day) was administered to a group of prediabetic subjects, obtaining an important reduction in the levels of fasting glucose and insulin. Moreover, thanks to the high protein content pistachios are ideal snacks for a healthy and balanced diet as they give energy they therefore are a help especially for those who practice sports.