The still undiscovered power of pistachios

Don't have a program for the evening and at the same time want to enjoy something special? We recommend pistachios, if you buy them unshelled, the program is definitely taken care of and you already know the taste. But why are they so special?

Although we all know them as a type of nut, in fact, in botany, they belong to the group of seeds hidden in a hard shell, which must be removed before consumption. They come from Central Asia, specifically from Iran and Afghanistan, but today they can also be grown in the USA, Turkey, China, Syria and Greece. The inconspicuous little nuts are full of energy and beneficial nutrients, their color range from yellow to green and their slightly sweet taste made them an easy way into our menus. Sometimes you will be put off by their price, but their benefits are much more valuable than the price evaluation, and it is not for nothing that they have been given the title of superfood.

What these little nuts can do:

• they regulate blood sugar
• they protect cells
• they maintain good blood sugar levels
• they reduce cholesterol and blood pressure
• they support vascular health
• they help with weight loss

What is their secret?

Compared to other types of nuts, they contain much fewer calories . Per 100 grams, pistachios have 562 calories, walnuts 660 and pecans up to 729 calories. Compared to the low number of calories, there is a high amount of protein . It is precisely the high amount of protein and fiber that increases the feeling of satiety, thanks to which you consume less food during the day. Since eating them takes the time it takes to shell the nuts, the rate of eating slows down and the brain is more likely to realize that the body has already received everything it needs. According to one study, individuals who shelled pistachios themselves before eating consumed 41% fewer calories than those who ate pre-shelled pistachios.

They also contain a large amount of vitamin B6 , which is essential for the regulation of blood sugar and the formation of hemoglobin, which makes them a suitable food for pregnant women suffering from gestational diabetes. During pregnancy, however, we recommend discussing their consumption with the attending physician. Vitamin B6 will also strengthen your immunity and improve your mood. Pistachios also play an important role in supporting the strength of blood vessels, as they are rich in L-arginine , which, after being converted into nitric oxide, helps dilate blood vessels. The antioxidants contained in pistachios slow down the aging of cells, which will help you prevent the appearance of wrinkles.

Their use is really versatile. We most often know them in a salty, roasted form. Although they taste best this way, pistachios processed this way are high in sodium, which can lead to high blood pressure, heart disease and stroke. But since they go well with beer or wine, both young and old can enjoy them in small quantities. Unsalted pistachios, on the other hand, excel in desserts, either as a decoration or in the form of pistachio butter in cream or dough.