Pistachios recommended over chips to lower harmful cholesterol

Cardiologist Dr. Kostaf Dabadkar has said that replacing typical snacks with a handful of pistachios can help achieve a more balanced diet and support stable cholesterol levels.

Dabadkar explained that pistachios are rich in healthy unsaturated fats, protein, and dietary fiber. They also contain plant sterols, which have a similar structure to cholesterol and compete with it for absorption in the digestive system, thereby reducing the uptake of harmful LDL cholesterol.

Similarly, cardiologist Travis Benzing recommended pistachios as a filling snack due to their protein, fiber, healthy fats, as well as potassium and magnesium content.

Doctors advise choosing unsalted pistachios instead of unhealthy snacks like potato chips, while emphasizing that nuts alone are not a substitute for medical treatment. Lowering cholesterol depends on overall diet and lifestyle.