Pistachios are nuts with a dry, hard, outer egg-shaped shell, with a tasty kernel inside that are popularly consumed as a snack food. Botanically known as Pistacia vera, it is a fruit-bearing tree which is native to Syria, Greece, Iran and Western Asia, but are also commercially grown in the United States, Turkey, and Italy. In the United States, about 98% of all pistachios are grown in California. There is a limited commercial growth of pistachios in Arizona and New Mexico as well.
Pistachios are not just enjoyed as a snack food; they are also used in baking and cooking. Their unique texture and coloring make them a popular addition to salads and appetizers. They are also a frequent addition to entrees and desserts.
Nutrition Value of Pistachios:
Pistachios are rich in monounsaturated fatty acids, they are one of the most healthy options for heart. They work to reduce high blood pressure. So when these two factors are taken care of, it is obvious that cardiovascular diseases would have lesser chances to set in.
Pistachios are excellent Source of B-6. Vitamin B-6 helps produce neurotransmitters and red blood cells. One of the neurotransmitters it produces, serotonin, regulates your moods and sleep cycles. Your body uses vitamin B-6 to convert the amino acid homocysteine into another protein-building amino acid. Because this conversion removes homocysteine from your blood, it may contribute to your cardiovascular health.
Pistachios provide Iron is in the hemoglobin in your red blood cells, which delivers oxygen throughout your body.
Pistachios have the property to improve vision. The antioxidants that are contained in this nut are believed to be found in no other nuts. These antioxidants fight free radical damage and reduce the risk of developing age-related macular degeneration.
Pistachio nuts help to reduce the risk of developing cancer. These antioxidants basically reduce cell death.
Pistachios are rich in phytosterols. These are plant sterols which reduce the absorption of dietary cholesterol from different foods. This help in bringing down the levels of LDL 'bad' cholesterol in the body.
Pistachio consumption reduces the stress related, elevated blood pressure levels, by as much as 10%. This is one of the most important pistachio nutrition facts, you will come across.
