Health benefits of pistachios consumption
- Authors: Terzo, S.; Baldassano, S.; Caldara Gaetano Felice, ; Ferrantelli, V.; Lo Dico Gianluigi, ; Mulè, F.; Amato, A.
- Publication year: 2017
- Type: Articolo in rivista (Articolo in rivista)
- OA Link: http://hdl.handle.net/10447/253130
Abstract
The health benefits of nuts, mainly in relation to the improvement of dysmetabolic conditions such as obesity, type 2 diabetes mellitus and the related cardiovascular diseases, have been widely demonstrated. Compared to other nuts, pistachios have a lower fat and caloric content, and contain the highest levels of unsaturated fatty acids, potassium, γ-tocopherol, phytosterols and xanthophyll carotenoids, all substances that are well known for their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory actions. This variety of nutrients contributes to the growing body of evidence that the consumption of pistachios improves health, leading to a greater potential of healthy antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activity, glycemic control, and endothelial function. The present review examines the nutrients and phytochemicals present in pistachios as well as the potential health benefits of including pistachios in a diet.