Pistachio Power

Your clients might be making great strides in managing their daily and weekly meal planning with your dietary suggestions. Together with the fitness training you’re providing, they have a winning combination to succeed. There’s one thing though that many clients struggle with and that is snacks. What can they snack on? How much can they have? When can they snack?


Introduce your clients to the power of pistachios. Many people who have developed bad habits over the years simply like the act of chewing. However, they chew potato chips, pretzels, cheese-laden crackers, etc. With a little guidance from you, they can munch their way to a healthy power snack that’s actually good for them.

Here are 5 powerful benefits of pistachios:

Benefit #1 – Vitamins and Minerals Power

Pistachios are rich in potassium (helps regulate the body's fluid balance), phosphorus (helps build bones and teeth) and magnesium (important element in the conversion of the body's energy), and are also a good source of vitamin B6 (aids protein metabolism and absorption) and thiamine (enhances energy and promotes normal appetite). The nuts deliver 30 vitamins, minerals, and phytonutrients, so they pack a considerable wallop from a nutritional standpoint.

Benefit #2 – Fiber Power

Pistachios are an excellent source of dietary fiber, and can provide a big boost to fiber intake. Lots of it! They contain higher amounts of fiber than many well known high-fiber foods.

Benefit #3 – Protein Power

If you are looking to replace animal protein with vegetable protein, pistachios eaten in conjunction with protein-rich grains, vegetables, and fruits, can help you to add protein to your diet. Pistachio nuts are an excellent source of vegetable protein.

Benefit #4 – Antioxidant Power

Oxidative stress can cause damage to the human body, resulting in diseases such as cancer and heart disease. Dietary antioxidants help to reduce the damage. Pistachios contain phenolic compounds, which are believed to account for the antioxidant capability of certain foods. The pistachio nut is placed in the highest group for antioxidants.

Benefit #5 – Cancer Fighting Power

A diet that incorporates a daily dose of pistachios may help reduce the risk of lung and other cancers, according to data presented at the American Association for Cancer Research Frontiers in Cancer Prevention Research Conference. A pistachio-rich diet could potentially help reduce the risk of other cancers from developing as well.

What is the proper power serving size?

Pistachio nuts have a high monounsaturated fat and protein content. Don't eat more than 30 nuts (18 g) more than four times a week. To reduce the sodium and fat content avoid salted, oil-roasted pistachio nuts.

As part of a healthy, balanced diet, sprinkle pistachios on yogurt, hot or cold cereal, or add to soft cream cheese for sandwiches and crackers. Add chopped pistachios to favorite breads, pancakes, waffles or muffins.

Sources: Science Daily , Health24.com




 

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