It has become known who benefits from eating pistachios at night

Regular consumption of pistachios in the evening can have beneficial effects on gut health and metabolism in people with carbohydrate metabolism disorders. This was reported by researchers from Pennsylvania State University. The results were published in the journal Current Developments in Nutrition (CDN).

The study involved 51 adults with prediabetes. During two 12-week periods, participants alternately included either a carbohydrate snack (15-30 grams) or 57 grams of pistachios in their evening diet. At the end of each phase, the scientists had subjects provide stool samples to analyze the composition of the gut microbiome.

It turned out that pistachio consumption significantly changed the composition of the gut microflora. Participants who snacked on nuts experienced an increase in the number of so-called "beneficial" bacteria, including Roseburia and members of the Lachnospiraceae family.

Scientists explained that these microorganisms produce the short-chain fatty acid butyrate. It serves as an energy source for colon cells, maintains the integrity of the intestinal barrier, and reduces inflammation.

At the same time, the number of bacteria associated with adverse metabolic effects decreased. In particular, after consuming pistachios, the population of Blautia hydrogenotrophica was reduced. This microorganism can produce substances harmful to the kidneys and heart.

According to the authors of the study, changes in the body when consuming pistachios may over time slow the development of type 2 diabetes and reduce the level of chronic inflammation. To confirm this hypothesis, scientists plan to continue their research.