Pistachios power-up vision: New study unveils eye health boost
Scientists from Tufts University in Massachusetts have conducted research that sheds new light on the health benefits of pistachios. Although it has long been known that these distinctive green nuts are packed with nutrients, new findings suggest their impact on health may be even more significant—particularly for our eye health.
- We hope people will start to see pistachios as more than just a healthy snack – said Prof. Tammy M. Scott, the lead author of the study, quoted by "Newsweek".
Scott, working at the Friedman School of Nutrition Science and Tufts University School of Medicine, and her team focused on lutein, an antioxidant found in high concentrations in pistachios.
Pistachios – Health encapsulated in a green nut
Pistachio nuts have a long history—known over 10,000 years ago, with crops particularly popular in Syria. Although initially considered as "snacks for kings," they gradually gained popularity worldwide. In the 19th century, they made their way to the United States, which now leads in pistachio production.
Research confirms that pistachios provide many valuable components, including antioxidants, minerals, and vitamins. However, it is the lutein, which they contain in exceptionally large amounts, that captured the attention of researchers at Tufts University.
Research procedure and results
The study involved two groups. One continued their daily diet, while the other enriched it with 57 grams of pistachios daily, equivalent to two handfuls of nuts. As a result, participants consumed twice as much lutein as before the experiment began.
Scientists measured the MPOD (macular pigment optical density in the eye) in all participants before the study and again after six and twelve weeks. Even after the first measurement, conducted after six weeks, a significant increase in MPOD was observed in people consuming pistachios.
- People who ate pistachios experienced a significant increase in their MPOD within just six weeks, which suggests that regular consumption of pistachios may help maintain eye health by increasing lutein levels in the retina, stated Dr. Scott.
Studies indicate that regular consumption of pistachios may be a simple, natural way to support eye health, which becomes particularly important with age as the risk of vision problems increases.
An alternative to expensive pistachios
Although pistachios are notable for their high lutein content, their price means not everyone can afford to include them regularly in their diet. However, there is a cheaper alternative. Doctors and specialists recommend carrots—a popular vegetable rich in beta-carotene, which the body converts into vitamin A, also essential for eye health.
Carrots, belonging to the parsley family, are known for their health benefits. Besides beta-carotene, they provide vitamins from the B group, vitamin C, E, and K, as well as fibre. They are also widely used in the pharmaceutical and cosmetic industries.
