Pistachios are prized for their unique, slightly sweet flavor as well as for their intriguing viridescent hues. Pistachios are one of the world’s oldest nuts, being grown in the Middle East for thousands of years. They are even mentioned in the Old Testament of the Bible, which indicates their rich history as a prized food source (American Pistachios, 2014).

Like all nuts, pistachios are rich in beneficial nutrients. However, pistachios have some unique properties that set them apart. Their versatility means that you can eat pistachios alone as a snack, on top of a salad, mixed with dried fruits in trail mix, in baked goods, or as a crunchy coating for fish or meat. In addition to these distinctive traits, consider the following nutritional benefits of pistachios as an added perk to their particularly pleasant palate.

Here are 9 evidence-based health benefits of pistachios.

• Loaded with nutrients.
• High in antioxidants.
• Low in calories yet high in protein.
• May aid weight loss.
• Promote healthy gut bacteria.
• May lower cholesterol and blood pressure.
• May promote blood vessel health.
• May help lower blood sugar.