PICTURE: PEXELS/PISTACHIOS
For those of you who are not fans of eating carrots even when the moms tell you it is good for the eyes, you might find the below interesting to you.
Pistachios may seem like a delicious treat, but they may have more health benefits than you may believe. Are you wondering how?
The below publications explore why pistachios are a wise dietary addition and delve into the unexpected link between them and eye health.
According to Medical News Today, “Pistachios are unusually rich in bioavailable lutein, a plant pigment that protects the macula from damage from blue light.”
The health news publication states that the heart-healthy mono- and polyunsaturated fats in pistachios make the pigment accessible, which is what sets them apart as a superior lutein delivery system.
News Medical claims, “A new study from researchers at the Friedman School of Nutrition Science and Policy at Tufts University has found that consuming pistachios daily may significantly improve eye health by increasing macular pigment optical density (MPOD), due to the plant pigment lutein, a key factor in protecting the eyes from blue (visible) light and age-related damage.”
Lutein may help prevent cognitive decline because it builds up in the brain in a certain way. Higher lutein levels have been linked in studies to improved cognitive function, such as memory and processing speed, which makes pistachios a useful component of a diet that promotes healthy ageing in general, the above health website adds.
According to Tammy Scott, a research and clinical neuropsychologist and lead author of the above study, “Our findings indicate that pistachios are not only a nutritious snack, but they may also provide significant benefits for eye health. This is especially important as people age and face higher risks of vision impairment.”
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