Wednesday, October 8, 2008

Benefits of Eating Pistachio Nuts

Dry fruits are a rich source of antioxidants and high density lipid (HDL). Pistachio nuts (pale-green nuts) have been found to be having beneficial effect on our lipid profile. Regular daily intake of 45g to 75g of pistachio nuts (pista) could reduce overall cholesterol level with an increase in HDL-C, a good lipid. In fact obesity and its related problems are a big concern for all developing countries. High level of low density lipid (LDL) or bad cholesterol is a major cause of coronary artery disease (CAD). Especially for women HDL is more important than LDL and total cholesterol level. So, women should be encouraged to eat pistachio nuts. About 30 to 45 per cent population in majority of the countries is overweight. There is a simple method to assess your fitness through body mass index (BMI) evaluation as highlighted in my previous article. Non-salted pistachio nuts are a very nutritious food item since it contains antioxidants, phytosterols and fibre. Intake of pistachio nuts stimulates and corrects metabolism.