Pistachios promote probiotics in the gut

In addition to providing ample protein, vitamin B6 and thiamin, new research conducted at the Human Nutrition Research Center in Beltsville, Md., found that people who ate 3 ounces—a couple handfuls—of pistachios daily for 19 days had elevated levels of probiotics (good bugs) in their digestive tracts.

Specifically, pistachios promoted butyrate-producing flora—microbes believed to maintain colon health and even reduce colon cancer risk. Scientists think pistachios' abundant dietary fiber and phytochemicals may be the reasons behind these benefits.