Pistachio nuts are small, green nuts, grown primarily in the Middle East and California, with a pungent and slightly sweet flavor that some refer to as "addictive." High in fats, pistachio nuts are a good source of healthy calories.
Calories
According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture, a 1-oz. serving of around 49 shelled pistachio kernels contains 160 calories. Fats provide 114 calories, carbohydrates deliver about 32 calories and proteins make up 24 calories per serving.
Components
The USDA also comments that the same serving of pistachios weighs about 28 g. Around 13 g of that amount come from fats, while carbohydrates make up 8 g and proteins comprise just under 6 g. Water and other nutrients make up the rest.
Nutrients
Roasted pistachio nuts also contains several important vitamins including vitamin B6, E and K, thiamin, riboflavin, niacin and folate. Dietary minerals within the portion include copper, manganese, phosphorus, magnesium, potassium, iron, zinc, selenium and calcium.
Considerations
Penn State University indicates that pistachio nuts also contain antioxidants, including beta-carotene, lutein and gamma-tocopherol. These powerful nutrients may help to reduce inflammation within the body and the build up of plaques within the bloodstream, both of which can contribute to cardiovascular disease. While pistachios are high in fat per serving, these are primarily healthier monounsaturated or polyunsaturated fats.
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