Longfully, carrots – scientists have discovered a new way of harming to stimulate your eye health.
Researchers at TUFTS University have recently discovered that eating only two pistachios per day can protect themselves against macular degeneration, the main cause of vision loss in older American adults.
“Our study shows that pistachios are not only a tasty snack – they can also be excellent for your eyes,” said Doctor Tammy ScottA research neuropsychologist and clinic and principal author of the study. “By eating a small amount every day, you can help protect your vision, especially as you get older.”
What is macular degeneration?
Age -related macular degeneration (AMD) is a disease that gradually damages the macula, the part of the retina of your eye responsible for central and net vision. As is getting worse, people find it more and more difficult to see things directly in front of them, while their peripheral vision remains largely not affected.
Almost 20 million adults in the United States Live with AMD, which presents itself in two types.
The slower dry DMLA represents around 80% of cases. It occurs when the macula thinks with age, often due to the accumulation of yellow protein deposits called Drusn, According to the American Academy of Ophthalmology.
The damp damp, although less common, is much more aggressive, causing rapid and severe vision loss. In this form, the function of the macula is compromised by the growth and the leakage of abnormal blood vessels under the retina.
Age is the main risk factor for the two types of DML, but smoking, obesity, hypertension and family history also contribute. Although there is no remedy for dry or wet AMD, treatments are available that could be able to slow the progression of the disease and preserve vision longer.
Nut-ur your vision
The pistachios offer more than a satisfactory crunch – they are filled with luteinA natural pigment found in plants that help protect your eyes.
In the studySupported by American pistachio producers, the researchers found that people who incorporated two ounces of non -salty pistachios, dissected and dry roasted in their daily diet experienced significant improvements in their macular pigmentary density (MPOD) after only six weeks.
MPOD is a key indicator of eye health, measuring the amount of macular pigment in the center of the retina, which contains lutein. This pigment protects vision by absorbing blue harmful light and close to ultraviolet.
“Lutein is an antioxidant that acts like sunglasses for your eyes,” said Scott, adding that this could also help prevent or slow down the progression of DMLA.
Despite its importance, Average contribution of lutein to the United States is fairly weak – but the researchers said that pistachios could help fill the gap. The study revealed that two handles of nuts provided approximately 1.6 mg of lutein, enough to double typical daily consumption in adults.
“By simply incorporating a handful of pistachios into your diet, you can improve your lutein consumption, which is crucial to protect your eyes,” said Scott. “It is never too early to start thinking about what you can do to support healthy aging.”
While many fruits and vegetables are rich in lutein, Scott noted that the body more effectively absorbs pistachios antioxidant, thanks to their natural fat content.
Look beyond eye health
The advantages of lutein do not stop in your eyes.
“As in the retina, lutein accumulates selectively in the brain, where it can help reduce oxidative stress and inflammation,” said Dr. Elizabeth JohnsonA co-researcher on the study. Oxidative stress And inflammation are linked to chronic conditions such as heart disease, diabetes and cancer.
Pistachios are a snack with fibers and proteins, helping weight management And promote healthy intestinal bacteria. Healthy fats in pistachios also help lower blood pressure and cholesterol, making it a healthy option for the heart.
In addition, pistachios are loaded with essential vitamins and minerals such as vitamin B6, potassium, thiamine, vitamin E and iron – which makes it a one -stop shop to increase both your vision and your overall health.