Pistachio nuts have the lowest calorie content of all tree nuts. They contain many important nutrients, such as phytosterols, antioxidants, unsaturated fat, carotenoids, vitamins, minerals and fiber. According to the American Heart Association, eating a small portion of nuts daily may lower the risk of heart disease.
Serving Size
Low-calorie pistachios have the largest serving size of all nuts. One serving is about 49 kernels, or one ounce. This substantial snack contains more than 30 different beneficial nutrients and has only 170 calories.
Antioxidants
Pistachios contain more than 10 different antioxidants, such as lutein and naringenin. Antioxidants have been shown to help prevent diseases such as heart disease, macular degeneration and cancer. The American Heart Association advises getting these nutrients through diet.
Fiber
A one-ounce serving of pistachio nuts contains 12 percent of the recommended daily amount of fiber. According to the American Heart Association, fiber has been shown to regulate blood sugar levels, reduce the risk of some cancers and lower cholesterol.
Potassium
Potassium is a mineral that is needed for the body to function properly. It is an essential part of the sodium-potassium pump that controls the beating of the heart. One serving of pistachios contains 310 mg of potassium, a whopping 36 percent of the daily recommended amount.
Healthy Fats
Unsaturated fats may reduce blood cholesterol levels when used instead of saturated fats, according to the American Heart Association. Almost 90 percent of the pistachio nut's fat content is the unsaturated, healthy kind.
Other Nutrients
Pistachio nuts are also a good dietary source for phosphorous, copper, vitamin B6 and manganese. They contain folate and vitamin E as well.
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