Effects of pistachios on cardiovascular risk factors and potential mechanisms of action: A dose-response study.

Gebauer SK, West SG, Kay CD, Alaupovic P, Bagshaw D, Kris-Etherton PM.

Am J Clin Nutr. 2008; 88:651-9.

Researchers evaluated the effects of 2 doses of pistachios, added to a lower-fat diet, on lipids and lipoproteins, apolipoprotein (apo)-defined lipoprotein subclasses, and plasma fatty acids.

The subjects, 10 men and 18 women with elevated LDL cholesterol, ate pistachios as either 10% (about one serving) or 20% (about two servings) of daily calorie needs. This ranged from 32 to 63 grams (about 1 to 2 ounces) per day or 63 to 126 grams (about 2 to 4.5 ounces) per day. Pistachios were often eaten as a snack in place of pretzels and potato chips, or in recipes.

After four weeks, LDL cholesterol levels were reduced with as little as one serving of pistachios per day. The authors concluded that inclusion of pistachios in a healthy diet beneficially affects CVD risk factors in a dose-dependent manner.