Pistachios increase serum antioxidants and lower serum oxidized-LDL in hypercholesterolemic adults.
Kay CD, Gebauer SK, West SG, Kris-Etherton PM.
J Nutr. 2010;140(6):1093-8.
This study suggests that eating pistachios raises the levels of serum antioxidants, such as lutein and gamma tocopherol, which may contribute to lower levels of oxidized-LDL cholesterol. Higher amounts of oxidized-LDL and fat-breakdown products are found in atherosclerotic plaques. These substances are thought to play a role in the development and progression of atherosclerosis, the collection of fatty materials along the arteries. Lowering oxidized-LDL decreases the risk of heart disease.