Pistachio Nut Effects on the Blood Lipid Profile in Patients With Type II Diabetes Mellitus: A Single-Blind Randomized Crossover Controlled Clinical Trial

Introduction: Nuts are known for their health properties, and they play a special role in Mediterranean diets. This study aimed to determine Iranian pistachio effects on serum lipid levels in type II diabetic patients. Methods: In this randomized crossover single-blind trial, 48 diabetic patients were randomly assigned to 2 groups: one that consumed 50 g of Iranian pistachios and one that followed the usual diet for 12 weeks. After an 8-week washout period, the participants were crossed over to the alternate arm. Results: Systolic blood pressure was significantly lower in the pistachio phase than the usual diet. Changes in diastolic blood pressure, lipid values (cholesterol, triglyceride, low-density lipoprotein, and high-density lipoprotein), weight, and body mass index were not significantly different between the 2 intervention phases. Conclusions: In diabetic patients, an Iranian pistachio intake (50 g daily) improved systolic blood pressure. Additionally, no detrimental effects were caused by pistachio consumption on lipid values. It seems that pistachio consumption at a high dose could change the results.