The randomized controlled trial showed that eating 57 grams of peanuts per day as part of a normal diet for 12 weeks led to a significant increase in MPOD in otherwise healthy middle-aged and older adults, compared to eating a normal diet alone. MPOD is an important indicator of eye health because it protects the retina and reduces the risk of age-related macular degeneration (AMD), the leading cause of blindness in older adults.
A SIGNIFICANT INCREASE WAS OBSERVED IN 6 WEEKS
Increased MPOD:
Participants who consumed pistachios daily saw a significant increase in their MPOD after just 6 weeks, and this effect persisted throughout the 12-week study.
Natural Source of Lutein:
Pistachios are the only nut that provides a measurable source of lutein, a powerful antioxidant that helps protect the eyes.
AMD Prevention Potential:
The study suggests that regular peanut consumption may offer a natural dietary approach to reduce the risk of AMD.
The unique role of lutein from pistachios on eye health
Lutein, found in pistachios, plays a critical role in maintaining eye health by filtering blue light and acting as an antioxidant in the eye. The study found that pistachio consumption nearly doubled participants’ daily lutein intake.
Dr. Scott explains that participants in the study were selected to have low habitual basal lutein intakes in their diets, and just 57 grams per day rapidly increased blood lutein levels in just 6 weeks. “By adding just a handful of peanuts to your diet, you can increase your intake of lutein, which is crucial for protecting your eyes,” says Dr. Scott. He adds that pistachios provide a healthy source of fat, potentially allowing the lutein in pistachios to be better absorbed into the body.
In the study, approximately 1.6 mg of lutein was obtained from pistachios.