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February 26th is World Pistachio Day, a food with many good properties for our health. It is one of the most valued nuts in our gastronomy that helps us regulate cholesterol levels, maintain good blood pressure, control weight and have a healthy and balanced diet.
Pistachios contain vegetable proteins, phosphorus, magnesium, and potassium, and therefore help reduce blood pressure and heart rate in stressful situations. They are a source of vitamin B6, which helps reduce tiredness and fatigue. They also contain vitamins K, E, and B1.
It is low in fat, it is the nut with the fewest calories and also has a satiating effect, therefore, it is indicated in diets to lose weight. It improves and regulates intestinal transit, and is considered one of the most antioxidant foods that exist. It is the best nut for diabetes as it regulates blood glucose levels and improves insulin resistance.
As you can see, there are many advantages to pistachios, although it must also be said that their price is quite high because the plant takes about seven years to produce the fruit.
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Ancestral origin of the pistachio
The pistachio tree is called alfónsigo or pistachero. This tree is one of the oldest trees in the world and is native to Asia Minor and Western Asia, where it grew wild in the high desert regions. Today it is considered a dry fruit of universal character and that becomes irresistible to the palate. A curious and quite characteristic fact about the pistachio is that it takes many years for the seed to germinate, approximately seven years for the tree to bear fruit.Some interesting facts about pistachios
Although it is said that the pistachio is 7,000 years old, in more recent excavations in Turkey, findings of this fruit dating back 9,000 years were found.
It was a common food for travelers and explorers during long voyages.
In China it is known as “Happy Nut” and in Iran as the “Smiling Nut”.
During the time of the Queen of Sheba, the pistachio was considered a food worthy of royalty, not allowed to the common people.
There is a legend that associates the pistachio with fortune and luck among lovers under the shade of the pistachio tree.
Health Benefits of Pistachios
Some of the properties of the pistachio are:
- Contains unsaturated fat, ideal for preventing heart disease.
- It has large amounts of vitamins K, B1, B2 and E, which help keep cells young as a natural antioxidant.
- It can help against depression and stress.
- Helps prevent diseases such as diabetes by leveling blood glucose.
- It can be an ally for the health of the eyes, skin and stomach.
- Even aphrodisiac properties are attributed to it.
- According to studies, its consumption could increase longevity.
