Contrary to popular belief, nuts will not sabotage your ability to lose weight. In fact, they are a great addition to your daily diet. Almonds, filberts, walnuts, pine nuts, pecans, macadamia nuts and other varieties of tree nuts are recommended – as is the pistachio, which has a buttery flavor. Similar to almonds, the pistachio has a high nutritious value, being very rich in proteins and vitamins. Pistachios are also high in healthy monounsaturated fats, making them a highly satisfying food or snack.

Pistachios are gaining fame as one of the healthiest nuts available because of their high levels of phytosterol, a plant compound known to reduce cholesterol levels and improve hearth health. According to an article published in December 2005 by the American Chemical Society’s Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry, pistachios have the highest levels of phytosterols among snack nuts most commonly consumed in the United States. The unique green color of this delightful nut is due to its high level of chlorophyll, plant pigment that makes leaves green. Avoid the dyed red shells and select the natural tan shelled variety.