Pistachio nuts  are rich in plant sterols and soluble fibre. They are full of antioxidants that protect cells from damage by harmful chemicals, called ‘free radicals’. Pistachios may also  destroy bad cholesterol that can lead to heart attacks and stroke.

The nut helps  lowering lipids and lipoproteins, which are a risk factor for heart disease. Pistachios are much richer in the main dietary antioxidants lutein, beta-carotene and gamma-tocopherol than other nuts.

Beta-carotene turns into vitamin A which prevents cancer and gamma-tocopherol is a common form of vitamin E that wards off heart disease. Lutein is found in dark green leafy vegetables and is important in vision and healthy skin.

It is believed antioxidants also prevent cholesterol from moving into the blood vessel walls and causing inflammation

Pistachio nut  are a rich source of fibre and soluble fibre

30 g of pistachio nuts contains

• 167 Kcalories
• 13.5 g fat
• 8.5 g protein
• 8.5 g carbohydrate
• 3 g fibre
• 0.4 mg Niacin
• 0.5 mg vitamin C
• 32 mg calcium
• 306  mg potassium
• 36 mg magnesium
• 1.2 mg iron
• 0.7 mg  zinc
• 100 mcg beta-carotene