Pistachios have multiple nutrients that can benefit glycemic control and overall health
Diabetes impacts how the body processes food into energy. Normally, the body converts most of the food eaten into sugar (glucose), which enters the bloodstream. As blood sugar levels rise, the pancreas releases insulin, which helps move the sugar into the cells to be used for energy. In diabetes, either the body doesn’t produce enough insulin or it can’t use it effectively. Without sufficient insulin, sugar builds up in the bloodstream, which can lead to serious health issues over time, such as heart disease, vision loss, and kidney damage. While there is no cure, managing diabetes through weight loss, a healthy diet, and regular physical activity is essential.1
There are three main types of diabetes: type 1, type 2 and gestational diabetes.
- Type 1 diabetes is thought to be caused by an autoimmune reaction (the body attacks itself), which stops the body from making insulin. It can be diagnosed at any age and diagnosis requires daily use of insulin in order to live. Approximately 5-10% of the people who have diabetes have type 1.2
- With type 2 diabetes, the body doesn’t use insulin well and can’t keep blood sugar at normal levels. Symptoms can vary, so it’s important to get blood sugar tested and monitor trends to help lower the risk of progression. The risk of type 2 diabetes can be lowered with healthy lifestyle changes. It develops over many years and is much more common than type 1, about 90-95% of people with diabetes have type 2.3
- Gestational diabetes develops during pregnancy and can occur in women who don’t already have diabetes. It happens when there is not enough insulin to support the pregnancy and should be checked by a medical professional as it can affect the mother’s and baby’s health. The risk of gestational diabetes may be lowered through lifestyle changes like exercise and diet.4
Pistachios and Diabetes: Research Highlights
- Studies have shown that daily consumption of pistachios can improve blood markers (fasting blood glucose, insulinemia, HOMA-IR, and fructosamine) for those with pre- diabetes and type 2 diabetes.5
- Pregnant women who consumed a Mediterranean Diet including about 1 oz of pistachios a day saw a lower incidence of gestational diabetes.6
- Pistachios may be a healthful alternative to carbohydrate-rich nighttime snacks in those with pre-diabetes.7
Diabetes Management
Gestational Diabetes