Nuts are a treasure trove of nutrition, and pistachios are among the best of them, highly nutritious. A single pistachio contains at least eight beneficial substances.
Vitamin E
In pistachios, vitamin E, which has strong antioxidant properties, can protect unsaturated fatty acids from being oxidized. In the human body, vitamin E helps to delay aging, maintain skin health, and prevent atherosclerosis.
Oleic Acid
Oleic acid accounts for more than half of the fat in pistachios and is the most important monounsaturated fatty acid. Oleic acid is considered the most beneficial fatty acid for cardiovascular health.
Proanthocyanidins
The purple-red skin of pistachios is rich in proanthocyanidins. Studies have found that proanthocyanidins can lower blood lipids, reduce blood pressure, fight cancer, and protect against radiation.
Lutein
The green kernels of pistachios contain a relatively high amount of lutein. Lutein also has strong antioxidant properties. In addition, lutein can help combat macular degeneration of the retina.
Resveratrol
Resveratrol is also one of the well-known natural antioxidants. It can scavenge free radicals and inhibit lipid peroxidation. In addition to protecting the cardiovascular system, resveratrol also has multiple effects such as enhancing immunity, fighting cancer, and having antiviral and anti-aging properties.
Quercetin
Quercetin is a type of flavonoid with strong antioxidant effects.
Plant Sterols
Like soybeans, pistachios contain a significant amount of plant sterols. Plant sterols, also known as phytosterols, help prevent abnormal blood lipids and atherosclerosis.
Dietary Fiber
Compared to other nuts, the advantage of pistachios is their high dietary fiber content. Approximately 30 to 50 pistachios contain 2 to 3 grams of dietary fiber.