Are pistachios the scavengers of blood vessels?

Mr. Zhang recently found that his cholesterol level was on the high side during a physical examination. The doctor advised him to eat a small handful of pistachios every day. Ms. Li stays up late all year round, but her skin condition is much better than that of her peers. The secret is actually the can of green nuts in her desk drawer. How many unknown health secrets are hidden in this ingredient that was called "fairy fruit" by the ancients?

Every 30 grams of pistachios contain approximately: 6 grams of high-quality protein (equivalent to 1 egg), 3 grams of dietary fiber (accounting for 12% of the daily requirement), and a unique combination of plant sterols. Its vitamin B6 content meets 28% of the daily requirement. This nutrient, known as the "happy vitamin", can effectively promote the synthesis of serotonin.

• Lutein + Zeaxanthin: Containing 342 micrograms per ounce, the eye protection effect is comparable to that of blueberries
• γ-Tocopherol: A special form of vitamin E, with an antioxidant capacity increased by 40%
• Arginine: Containing 2 grams per 100 grams, an amino acid that promotes vasodilation

1. Guardians of the Cardiovascular System
Research in the American Journal of Nutrition shows that daily intake of 40 grams of pistachios for 4 consecutive weeks can reduce total cholesterol by 8.7% and low-density lipoprotein by 11.6%. Its plant sterols can block the absorption of cholesterol in the intestine, and the monounsaturated fatty acids can increase the level of high-density lipoprotein.

2. Blood Sugar Stabilizer
The natural sweetness on the shell comes from low glycemic components. Experiments at the University of Cambridge have confirmed that when pistachios are used as a side dish with carbohydrates, the peak value of postprandial blood sugar can be reduced by 30%. This "deceleration effect" benefits from its rich combination of fiber and healthy fats.

3. Intestinal Scavengers
The insoluble fiber in the nuts cleans the intestine like a small brush, while the soluble fiber cultivates probiotic colonies. Research at the University of Tehran in Iran found that in subjects who ate pistachios daily, the number of bifidobacteria in the intestine increased by 2.3 times and the defecation frequency increased by 45%.

4. Natural Beauty Pills
The synergistic effect of vitamin E and polyphenols can neutralize the damage caused by ultraviolet rays. Research in the field of dermatology in South Korea shows that in subjects who consumed pistachios continuously for 12 weeks, skin elasticity increased by 19% and the depth of wrinkles decreased by 13%. This "inside-out" radiance is beyond the reach of skin care products.

• Golden Time: Have it with yogurt for breakfast or as a snack between 3 and 4 pm
• Perfect Combination: When paired with blueberries/ dark chocolate, the antioxidant value increases by 3 times
• Smart Choice: Choose the unbleached variety with a slightly yellow shell. Eating it with the shell on can reduce the intake by 23%.

The next time you crack open that crisp shell, you might as well think: This touch of emerald green from the Middle East is not only the wisdom of food therapy that has traversed thousands of years but also a natural supplement verified by modern nutrition. How many are you going to eat today? Welcome to share your "pistachio moments" in the comment section!