Pistachio nuts or pista, as we Indians call it, are known to be packed with immense health benefits that range from controlling diabetes to shielding against heart disease. With a strikingly low glycemic index and fat content, pistachios are definitely a must-have snack for your all-round health. But, apart from that, pistachios have several immune-boosting powers that give you that extra-edge to fight off infections.

How it improves immune function

Pistas are high in vitamin B6, that helps boost your immune system by helping it in the production of healthy immune cells. It also enhances blood flow in the body by improving hemoglobin levels in the blood and thus, allows for a greater supply of oxygen rich blood to other body parts and organs. It also increases the production of white blood cells (WBCs) in the lymph nodes. It helps in strengthening the defense system to fight against infections and diseases. The antioxidants present in pista – lutein and zeaxanthin plays an important role in eliminating the free radicals from the body. Also, it is found to enhance production of amino acids and helps in maintaining healthy nervous system.

Some amazing diet tips to enjoy pistas

Salted or roasted pistachio nuts are a hot-favorite among adults and kids as they not only taste well but also builds up your immune activity. Take a handful of pistas in a bowl and add some honey to it. Take it in the morning to pack an immune punch to your body.

Add some pistas to your green salad and double the chances of getting protected from severe infections as it boosts your immunity in addition to providing various health benefits.

You can also add some pistachios to fried rice and even brown rice to make it taste better along with gaining health benefits.

Pistachio butter that is prepared by mixing garlic, olive oil and salt (you can also add ingredients as per your taste) is also quite popular. Put pistas in fruit salads, ice-cream, yoghurt or muffins to make it even more crunchy and tasty in addition to gaining positive health effects.

For those who have a sweet-tooth, try making pista barfi for adding up your taste quotient as well as immune boosting powers.

Source: the health site