When the midday munchies come on strong, pass on the potato chips or candy bar and reach for a handful of pistachios instead. This week’s Greatist superfood is sure to satisfy hunger and— when eaten in moderation— can be more effective in managing weight compared to carb-heavy snacks.
GO NUTS FOR PISTACHIOS — WHY THEY’RE SUPER
Part of the human diet since the late Paleolithic Era (yup, cavemen likely enjoyed these little treats), pistachios grow on trees in hard shells, which crack open to reveal the tasty nuts inside [2]. Aside from their earthy flavor and crunchy texture, pistachios are a naturally cholesterol-free snack that’s high in fiber and protein. Plus, aone-ounce serving of these nuts has almost as much potassium as a smallbanana.
And pistachios might do even more than fill us up. Research suggests pistachios can significantly reduce levels of LDL cholesterol (the “bad” type) while boosting antioxidant levels [3]. In addition to keeping cholesterol levels in check (and thereby lowering the risk for cardiovascular disease), pistachios might also be effective in weight management [4] [5]. But those watching their waistline should steer clear of the pre-shelled variety. Another study found that people consume up to 41% more calories from pistachios when they don’t have to crack the shell and work for it [2]. Guess that’s what kept the cavemen in shape!
GET CRACKING — YOUR ACTION PLAN
Sure, you can pig out on pistachio-flavored ice cream, but that isn’t the only (or nearly best) way to reap the health benefits of this superfood. Instead, sprinkle some on a salad, make a pistachio and basil pesto, or just nosh on a few right out of the shell. But be careful about chomping handful upon handful— after all, there is such a thing as too much of a good thing. For a quick, healthy snack, stick to a one-ounce serving, or about 45 nuts. And remember, stay natural to avoid excess cholesterol and added sodium.
And pistachios might do even more than fill us up. Research suggests pistachios can significantly reduce levels of LDL cholesterol (the “bad” type) while boosting antioxidant levels [3]. In addition to keeping cholesterol levels in check (and thereby lowering the risk for cardiovascular disease), pistachios might also be effective in weight management [4] [5]. But those watching their waistline should steer clear of the pre-shelled variety. Another study found that people consume up to 41% more calories from pistachios when they don’t have to crack the shell and work for it [2]. Guess that’s what kept the cavemen in shape!
GET CRACKING — YOUR ACTION PLAN
Sure, you can pig out on pistachio-flavored ice cream, but that isn’t the only (or nearly best) way to reap the health benefits of this superfood. Instead, sprinkle some on a salad, make a pistachio and basil pesto, or just nosh on a few right out of the shell. But be careful about chomping handful upon handful— after all, there is such a thing as too much of a good thing. For a quick, healthy snack, stick to a one-ounce serving, or about 45 nuts. And remember, stay natural to avoid excess cholesterol and added sodium.