Back in September 2008 a study published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition found 1-2 handfuls of pistachio each day to lower LDL cholesterol levels. Adding 1.5 ounces of pistachios daily resulted in a 9% reduction in LDL cholesterol and 3 ounces lowered LDL cholesterol levels 12%. The study also found HDL cholesterol levels to increase in women who added 3 ounces of pistachios to their daily diet.

Here’s another reason to consider including pistachios as part of your heart healthy diet plan. A 1 ounce serving of pistachios provides 49 nuts, while a 1 ounce serving of almonds equals 23 nuts, pecans 19 nuts, and walnuts 14 nuts. You may feel like you are “getting” a little more when you enjoy a serving of pistachios for a heart healthy snack.

Just keep in mind that nuts, including pistachios, are high in calories. Watch your portion size!

All the best,
Lisa Nelson RD
http://www.lisanelsonrd.com