Pistachios to the rescue

California pistachios are nuts packed with nutrients and health benefits that will amaze you, and now, they are easily available in India.

According to Kavita Devgan, nutritionist, weight management consultant and author, California pistachios are different from their Iranian counterparts because of their oil content. An ounce of California pistachios delivers 13 grams of fat, majority of which (11.5gm) comes from monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats. Saturated fat contributes only 1.5gm per serving. This makes it a great snack. Research shows that there are many positives to pistachios, but in the Indian context the biggest benefit that stands out is the fact that pistachios are diabetesfriendly nuts. Diabetes is a huge concern in India and California pistachios can help in controlling it. Firstly, their low glycemic index (GI) ensures that they have minimal effects on blood sugar. In fact, by adding pistachios to the regular carbohydrate staples we eat like potatoes, rice, or pasta, we can reduce the relative blood sugar response of the carbohydrate rich meals, making it more diabetes-friendly. Secondly, the healthy combination of protein, healthy fats, and fibre support healthy blood glucose in the body. Plus the magnesium in these nuts help with effective blood sugar management. And finally, pistachios help control our appetite by controlling hunger stimulating hormones, thus improving long-term blood sugar control.

To read more about what Kavita Devgan and other Indian and global nutritionists have to say about California pistachios, please log on to www. AmericanPistachios.in

Kavita Devgan