There's More To Pistachios Than Just Barfi. This Green Nut Is Packed With Health Benefits

Most people tend to reach for the ever-popular almonds or walnuts when they want something healthy to snack on. However, you may not know that pistachios, otherwise considered exotic and kept for those special occasions and dishes, are also brimming with health benefits. Here’s why including a handful of ‘the green nut’ can do your health good.

Kernels of wonder

A good source of plant-based protein, dry and roasted pistachios have significantly lower fat content. They are also packed with minerals, such as magnesium, potassium, phosphorus, and vitamins A, K and B6. Registered dietician Kristin Kirkpatrick, quoted by a 2018 Time article, says pistachios are rich in carotenoids, an antioxidant that can help reduce risk of chronic disease and improve heart health.

Comparing it with other nuts, a study published on the National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI) website argues that, “This complete and diverse set of micronutrients and macronutrients means that pistachio nuts are potentially one of the more health-promoting foods.”

Do more with this versatile food

Other than the usual health bars, barfis, laddus and exotic decadent desserts, such as baklava, pistachios can be added to a host of everyday savoury dishes for a crunch. While you can definitely snack on it raw to tackle mid-meal hunger pangs, drop a handful of these green nuts on your healthy salads, breakfast oats, on top of your yogurt, or crust your meat with them or add them to your nut trail mix.

For all kinds of nuts, the foremost advice is not to have too much of them in one go. Have them in moderation and you can reap the health benefits.