-Benefits of Pistachios
Pistachios, an extremely healthy food source, contain many beneficial properties. You can find these benefits below.
- Pistachios are an excellent source of antioxidants. Antioxidants, which are extremely important for the body, are quite beneficial. Antioxidants both protect against cancer and contribute to increasing body resistance.
- Pistachios are often preferred by dieters due to their low calorie content. They are particularly favored by dietitians due to their low calorie content and high protein content.
- Regular consumption of pistachios can help prevent bad cholesterol in the body. This can also help prevent cardiovascular diseases.
Nutritional Value of Pistachios
Pistachios are a highly nutritious product. Providing consumers with a rich energy level, pistachios also contribute to cell renewal thanks to the vitamin B6 they contain. This nutrient is also crucial for skin health. It is also effective in eliminating signs of aging and preventing skin conditions such as eczema.
Pistachios are considered a meat substitute by scientists. Those who cannot consume enough meat or prefer a vegetarian diet can fill the gap by consuming this food. Additionally, the magnesium and manganese minerals contained in the product can contribute to increased body resistance and a strengthened immune system.
Things to Consider When Buying Pistachios
Pistachios can be found in almost all nut shops and markets. They are sold in salted, shelled, unshelled, or sweetened varieties. The pistachio shell protects it from all external influences. Salted or sweetened pistachios may not be preferred due to their high sugar and sodium content. Considering that even unshelled pistachios are exposed to the outside air, the most ideal pistachio variety is the classic, shelled variety.
Where Are Pistachios Grown?
Pistachios should be grown in a sunny location. The soil should be well-drained. Pistachios, which are particularly resistant to salty soils, are primarily a desert plant. Today, pistachios are grown outside of desert areas, and the best yields can be achieved by fertilizing them with saltwater. Genetically adapted to desert climates, pistachios are unaffected by major temperature fluctuations. This plant can survive between 10 and 48 degrees Celsius. Humidity is the pistachio tree's biggest enemy. Therefore, production areas must be dry. Overwatering damages the tree's roots and quickly causes it to rot. The most suitable climate conditions for growing pistachios are regions with long, hot summers.
The ideal environment for pistachio planting is orchards with fruit trees. Harvesting should be expected within 7-10 years of planting. A one-year waiting period should be allowed between production years, meaning the tree is harvested once every two years. The most productive harvest period is the 20th year after planting. Patience is essential throughout all production stages. Once all the necessary conditions for plant growth have been met, there should be no rush to harvest. Once the tree's needs are met, harvest is guaranteed within the expected time.
Pistachios, which provide significant income to investors thanks to their valuable fruit, are a product in demand worldwide. They are particularly popular in Central Asian countries, considered their homeland. Iran is the world's largest pistachio producer, followed by the United States and Turkey.
