Pistachios Offer Protective Benefits Against Heart Disease, Type II Diabetes a...(ar response delay gastric emptying and i...),Health

The same researchers presented their findings from the largest human clinical trial to evaluate the effects of nut consumption on individuals with Type II diabetes. The three-month study included 117 subjects (mean age 62) who were randomly assigned to receive one of three diet interventions: 1) 2-1/2 ounces or 1/2 cup of mixed nuts (including pistachios); 2) 1-1/3 ounces or 1/4 cup of mixed nuts and half portion of muffin; or 3) full portion of muffin. Each snack accounted for 450 calories, and all the overall diets were matched for caloric intake.

While on each diet intervention, researchers measured the subjects' HbA1c (a marker of blood sugar control over the previous three months) as well as blood lipid markers associated with heart heath. The findings revealed that the full dose nut group had significantly reduced LDL and total cholesterol levels compared to the full dose muffin group, as well as a significant reduction in HbA1c from baseline in the full dose nuts compared to the other two diets.

"Type II diabetes, heart disease and overweight are all related conditions, and a healthy diet - one that includes pistachios - may have a positive impact on these widespread public health conditions," said registered dietitian Kelly Plowe, MS, RD., nutrition communications manager at Paramount Farms.

About PistachioHealth.com

PistachioHealth.com is the leading online source of information on the health and nutrition benefits of pistachios, including research updates and educational materials, to both consumers and health professionals. The site is provided by Paramount Farms, California's largest pistachio grower and processor, as an industry-wide resource.

About Paramou
'/>"/>