Khaberni - Dubai's luxury pistachio-stuffed chocolate tops the list of the most popular snacks, as demand for pistachios has reached record levels due to the high demand for these delicious sweets.
But behind this popularity lies an amazing health secret, as research shows that pistachios are a unique dietary choice combining delicious taste with numerous health benefits, especially for gut and immune health.
A recent American study published in the journal Current Developments in Nutrition suggests that consuming pistachios in the evening may reshape the gut microbiome, i.e., the ecosystem of beneficial bacteria in the intestines, particularly in adults who are prediabetic. Another study in 2023 shows that pistachios increase the number of beneficial bacteria more than other nuts.
Nutrition expert Federica Amati explains: "Pistachios are rich in fibers and polyphenols, which thrive on the good gut microbes, and help maintain gut health and reduce inflammation."
Nutrition specialist Rob Hobson confirms that the fibers, healthy fats, and proteins in pistachios help ferment them in the colon to produce short-chain fatty acids such as butyrates and propionates, which support the intestinal lining and strengthen immunity. Also, polyphenol, tocopherol, and lutein in pistachios enhance microbiome activity and maintain intestinal balance.
Hobson adds: "Replacing a high-sugar and salt snack with a handful of pistachios is a simple and tasty way to support your gut health without any harmful additives."
Thus, it is clear that pistachios are not just a luxurious snack, but a complete food that enhances digestion and immunity and maintains gut health, which justifies its growing popularity around the world.
