Dietary treatments with pistachios, a bioavailable source of xanthophyll lutein, are effective in increasing macular pigment optical density (MPOD) in healthy adults, according to a new study from Tufts University and Tufts Medical Center. has been announced.
Pistachios are the only nut that provides a measurable source of lutein, a powerful antioxidant that helps protect the eyes. Image credit: Erika Varga.
Lutein and zeaxanthin are dietary xanthophylls, a type of carotenoid most commonly found in vegetables and fruits, with green and yellow vegetables being particularly rich sources.
These compounds cross the blood-brain barrier and accumulate exclusively in the macular region of the human retina, where they are called macular pigments.
Pistachios are the only nut that contains large amounts of lutein and zeaxanthin, but unlike eggs, they only contain lutein.
However, like eggs, pistachios provide a source of fat, primarily as monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats, and therefore may be a highly bioavailable source of lutein.
“Our research shows that pistachios are not only a nutritious snack, but may also have significant eye health benefits,” said Dr. Tammy Scott, a research and clinical neuropsychologist at Tufts University. The results are showing.”
“This is especially important as people age and the risk of visual impairment increases.”
In a randomized controlled trial, eating 2 ounces (57 grams) of pistachios per day as part of a regular diet for 12 weeks significantly reduced otherwise healthy middle-aged people compared to eating just their regular diet. MPOD was shown to increase significantly in the elderly. .
They also found that pistachio consumption almost doubled the participants' daily lutein intake and significantly increased plasma levels.
“Incorporating a handful of pistachios into your diet can improve your intake of lutein, which is important for eye protection,” says Dr. Scott.
“Pistachios provide a source of healthy fat, and lutein from pistachios may be more readily absorbed into the body.”
“Pistachios provided approximately 1.6 mg of lutein, which is enough to double the average daily intake of U.S. adults for lutein, a type of plant pigment known as xanthophylls.”
Lutein, found in pistachios, not only supports eye health but may also benefit brain function.
“Because lutein crosses the blood-brain barrier, it may help reduce oxidative stress and inflammation,” said Tufts University researcher Elizabeth Johnson, Ph.D.
“Similar to the eyes, lutein selectively accumulates in the brain and may play a role in attenuating cognitive decline.”
“Research suggests that higher levels of lutein improve cognitive abilities such as memory and processing speed, making pistachios an invaluable addition to diets aimed at supporting healthy aging overall. It is a great addition.”
of study On October 17, 2024, nutrition journal.
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Tammy M. Scott others. Pistachio consumption increases macular pigment optical density in healthy adults: a randomized controlled trial. nutrition journalpublished online October 17, 2024. doi: 10.1016/j.tjnut.2024.10.022
Source: www.sci.news
