May promote blood vessel health

The inner lining of blood arteries is known as the endothelium. Endothelial dysfunction is a risk factor for heart disease, so it must operate properly. The widening or dilatation of blood arteries is known as vasodilation. Endothelial dysfunction is distinguished by decreased vasodilation, which reduces blood flow. Nitric oxide is a molecule that is essential for vasodilation. It causes blood arteries to dilate by instructing the smooth cells of the endothelium to relax.

Pistachios are high in the amino acid L-arginine, which the body converts to nitric oxide. As a result, these little nuts may be beneficial to blood vessel health. One study found that eating 1.5 ounces (40 grams) of pistachios daily for three months improved markers of endothelial function and vascular stiffness in 42 participants. Another four-week research had 32 healthy young men follow a diet that included 20% pistachios. It was discovered that when they followed a Mediterranean diet, endothelium-dependent vasodilation improved by 30%. Many body functions, including erectile function, rely on proper blood flow.