How do pistachios help sleep?

Pistachios are not only delicious but also packed with important nutrients. These green nuts have a slightly sweet taste and have been enjoyed by people for thousands of years.

Now, research suggests that eating pistachios may help support better sleep. The finding comes from a study conducted in the United States.

How do pistachios affect sleep?

Researchers at Columbia University examined the possible effects of pistachios on sleep. Pistachios contain tryptophan phytomelatonin, magnesium and vitamin B6.

These nutrients play different roles in the body and may help support healthy sleep patterns.

Vitamin B6 helps the body use tryptophan to produce serotonin, which can then be converted into melatonin. Melatonin is a hormone that helps regulate the body’s sleep wake cycle.

Many people use melatonin supplements to help with sleep problems.

What did the researchers find?

The researchers found that pistachios may influence several biological processes linked to sleep.

However the study did not establish how many pistachios a person needs to eat to improve sleep. More research is needed to confirm their effects.

Pistachios also provide several nutrients that support overall health making them a nutritious addition to a balanced diet. The findings were published in the journal nutrition research reviews.

What nutrients do pistachios provide?

Pistachios contain protein, healthy fats fibre, vitamins and minerals.

A 28-gram serving provides approximately:

Calories: 159

Carbohydrates: 8 grams

Fibre: 3 grams

Protein: 6 grams

Fat: 13 grams

They also contain potassium phosphorus, copper, manganese, vitamin B1, and vitamin B6.

Why is Vitamin B6 important?

Vitamin B6 supports several important functions in the body. It helps the body process proteins supports the nervous system, and plays a role in normal brain function.

It also contributes to the body’s ability to process certain nutrients involved in the production of brain chemicals.

Although pistachios are a good source of vitamin B6 they should not be considered a treatment for sleep disorders or a replacement for medical advice.

Final thoughts

Pistachios are a nutritious snack that may support healthy sleep because they contain nutrients involved in the body’s sleep related processes.  However there is not enough evidence to say that eating pistachios alone will improve sleep.

Eating them in moderation as part of a balanced diet can help you enjoy their nutritional benefits while maintaining healthy eating habits.