Is it possible to enjoy great food and snacks during the game and not blow your resolution to eat healthy? Well, when you reach for a heart-healthy snack such as California pistachios, it really is.
New research from Penn State shows that a daily dose of pistachios – about one to two handfuls – can help lower bad cholesterol levels while increasing good cholesterol levels, which is good news for those who want to keep their hearts pumping on all cylinders.
Pistachios are a super snack because they’re a nutrient-dense nut. They offer more than 30 vitamins and are one of the lowest-calorie, lowest-fat and highest-fiber nuts. They also contain polyphenol antioxidants and lutein, an antioxidant needed to maintain eye health.
One little ounce of pistachios is loaded with tasty goodness and offers:
• 49 kernels – the most of any nut. Comparatively, there are 23 almonds per ounce, and 14 walnuts.
• 12 percent of daily recommended fiber, which aids the digestive tract, helps manage cholesterol and control blood sugar levels.
• 20 percent of the daily recommended value of vitamin B6, essential to human growth and healthy metabolism.
• More antioxidants than one cup of green tea (on an ounce-per-ounce basis).
• More lutein than three medium tangerines or a glass of orange juice.
For more information on pistachios, visit Wonderful Pistachios or Pistachio Health.
TOUCHDOWN TRAIL MIX
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Makes 38 (½ cup) servings
Ingredients:
1 bag in-shell Pistachios
4 cups each of bite size, wholegrain mini-check cereal, rice sticks, whole wheat or multigrain pretzels
2 tablespoons orange juice
1½ tablespoons light corn syrup
½ cup granulated sugar
Preparation:
In a large bowl, combine pistachios with remaining ingredients; blend well. Serve immediately or store in an airtight container up to two weeks.
– Courtesy of Family Features
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