To control cholesterol, turn to pistachios
New Delhi: Simple dietary changes like adding pistachio nuts to the diet can lead to multiple health benefits. A new study has found that diabetes could be controlled, and the propensity for heart disease may be reduced in Indians by consuming pistachios.
Diabetes has taken epidemic proportions in India,and emerged as one of the most serious healthcare problems.
The study, the first of its kind with a trial period of six months, was carried out
by the Diabetes Foundation of India (DFI) and the National Diabetes, Obesity and Cholesterol Foundation.
The results of the study were interesting.
Nuts (mainly pistachios, almonds and walnuts) have been shown to have
beneficial effects on glycemic and lipid parameters.
Th study also found that Pistachios have a low glycemic index and are naturally cholesterol free. They are also a source of protein, fibre and antioxidants.
These properties make consumption of pistachios potentially useful for those at risk for obesity and heart disease.
"Pistachios are part of the traditional Indian diet. However, the health
effects have not been clearly understood. This study shows multifaceted beneficial
effects of pistachios suitable for the Indian body type, for the alleviation of multiple
risk factors," said Anoop Mishra, chairman, Fortis Centre of Excellence for Diabetes Metabolic Diseases and Endocrinology (CDOC).
Seema Gulati, research head at the National Diabetes, Obesity and Cholestrol Foundation, said, 'Based on this study, we can say that pistachios provide an excellent
snack option, especially for those at risk of metabolic problems and diabetes.
They provide a beneficial effect in two ways: One, by displacing energy from other unhealthy sources, and second, due to their own intrinsic nutritional properties.'
- IANS
==================================