This presentation discusses new research from UCLA showing how pistachios have a greater effect in lowering triglyceride levels and BMI than a refined carbohydrate snacks like pretzels.

In summary, nuts improve glycemic control in type 2 diabetes and pistachios specifically have favorable effects on the postprandial response to white bread and other common carbohydrate foods. Nuts such as pistachios also reduce CVD & CHD/CVD risk factors that are of key importance in the metabolic syndrome and diabetes.  Other risk factors for CHD may also be reduced including blood pressure and c-reactive protein.

Serious dieters can achieve a >20% reduction in LDL-C over 3 years on a dietary portfolio including nuts and epidemiological and clinical studies indicate that nuts are associated with weight maintenance.

This presentation discusses CVD statistics and major modifiable risk factors, effects of pistachios on multiple CVD risk factors,and dietary recommendations.