Two daily punches of this snack can maintain eye health

Open aside, carrots – scientists have discovered a new way with nuts to increase the health of your eyes.

Researchers at TUFTS University recently found that eating only two punching of Pistachio a day can be protected from macular degeneration, the leading cause of loss of vision among elderly American adults.

“Our study shows that Pistachios are not just a tasty snack – they can also be great for your eyes,” said Dr. Tammy Scott, a clinical research and neuropsychologist and lead author of the study. “By eating a small amount every day, you can help protect your vision, especially when you grow old.”

What is macular degeneration?

Age -related macular degeneration (AMD) is a disease that gradually damages the macula, the retinal part of your eye responsible for sharp, central vision. As they worsen, people find it more difficult to see things directly in front of them, while their suburban vision remains largely unaffected.

Nearly 20 million adults in the US are living with AMD, which comes in two species.

Dry slower AMD accounts for about 80% of cases. It occurs when the macula becomes thinner with age, often due to the creation of yellow protein deposits known as Drusen, according to the American Academy of Ophthalmology.

Wet AMD, though less common, is much more aggressive, causing rapid and severe vision loss. In this form, the macula function is compromised by the growth and flow of abnormal blood vessels under the retina.

Age is the main risk factor for both types of AMD, but smoking, overweight, hypertension and family history also contributes. While there is no cure for dry or wet AMD, treatments are available that may be able to help slow down the progression of the disease and maintain vision for longer.

Nut-to your vision

Pistachios offer more than a satisfactory crisis – they are filled with lutein, a natural pigment found in plants that help protect your eyes.

In the study, backed by American pistachio growers, researchers found that people involving two ounces of unsaturated, cut, ripe dry pistachio in their daily diet saw significant improvements in the optical density of their macular pigment (MLOD) after only six weeks.

MLOD is a major indicator of eye health, measuring the amount of macular pigment in the center of the retina, which contains lutein. This pigment protects the vision by absorbing harmful blue and near-ultraviolet light.

“Lutein is an antioxidant that acts as sunglasses for your eyes,” Scott explained, adding that it can also help prevent or slow down AMD progress.

Despite its importance, Lutein’s average intake at the US is quite low – but researchers said Pistachios can help connect the gap. The study found that two fists of nuts provided about 1.6 mg lutein, sufficient to double the typical daily consumption in adults.

“Including simply a small piece of Pistachio in your diet, you can improve lutein intake, which is essential for protecting your eyes,” Scott said. “It’s 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 absorbs the antioxidant more effectively from Pistachios, thanks to their natural fat content.

Looking beyond the health of the eyes

Lutein’s benefits do not stop in your eyes.

“As in the retina, lutein accumulate selectively in the brain, where it can help reduce oxidative stress and inflammation,” said Dr. Elizabeth Johnson, a co-perpetrator of the study. Oxidative stress and inflammation are associated with chronic conditions such as heart disease, diabetes and cancer.

Pistachios are a snack with fiber and protein, helping to manage weight and promote healthy intestinal bacteria. Healthy fats on Pistachios also help lower blood pressure and cholesterol, making them a healthy heart option.

Moreover, pistachios are loaded with essential vitamins and minerals such as vitamins B6, potassium, thiamine, vitamin E and iron-making them a shop with a stop to increase both your vision and overall health.