Why pistachio is the best nut for sound sleep as per Ayurveda; know all benefits (2024)

Sleep problems are becoming common in modern times due to unhealthy lifestyle choices and poor sleep hygiene. Taking gadgets to bed, eating heavy dinner and not having a proper wind down schedule can affect quality of sleep. However, lack of certain nutrients can also lead to sleep problems. Some evidence suggests that an inadequate intake of nutrients, such as vitamins A, C, D, E, and K, calcium, and magnesium, is linked to sleep trouble. (Also read: National Pistachio Day: 5 healthy and delicious pistachio recipes to try)

In some cases, overdose of vitamins could also lead to insomnia. Foods like nuts, seeds, fruits and vegetables are storehouse of vitamins and some of them are very effective in fixing sleep issues. For instance, pistachio is known to be the best nut for sleep problems as per Ayurveda as it has the highest amount of melatonin which can help one sleep better and longer. It helps supply magnesium and Vitamin B6 to the body which aids in restful sleep.

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Eat a handful of pistachios before bedtime for sound sleep

"Among all nuts, pistachios have the highest amount of melatonin and that's why they are best for sound sleep. Melatonin helps us sleep longer and fall asleep more quickly. It also improves the quality of our sleep which is mandatory for healing all physical, mental- health and Auto-immune disorders. Eating pistachios also provides our bodies with magnesium and Vitamin B6. Not only can magnesium help you get to sleep, but it plays a part in helping you achieve deep and restful sleep as well. Vitamin B6 plays an important role in the synthesis of GABA, tryptophan, and serotonin, all of which impact sleep. Tryptophan is an amino acid that plays a role in the production of serotonin, the 'happy hormone' that helps stabilize our mood," says Ayurveda expert Dr Dixa Bhavsar in her recent Instagram post.

Many benefits of pistachio

Explaining multiple benefits of consuming pistachios regularly, the Ayurveda expert goes on to explain how the wonderful nuts helps boost several aspects of physical and mental health.

"According to Ayurveda, pistachios are vata-shamaka, guru and ushna which makes them best for people with anxiety, insomnia, mindless food cravings and obesity. They improve appetite, sexual power, mood and even sleep. They are great for heart too," says Dr Bhavsar.

Best time to have pistachio for sound sleep

"So those of you struggling to have sound sleep- I'd suggest having a handful of pistachios 1 hour before bedtime rather than popping on magnesium and melatonin pills," says the expert.

Suggesting other remedies for good quality sleep, Dr Bhavsar said for those with insomnia (loss of sleep), disturbed sleep, over-thinking and anxiety consuming Ayurvedic herbs like brahmi, ashwagandha, jatamansi, tagar, shakhpushpi and other stress relieving and sleep improving ayurvedic herbs at bedtime with milk or water is beneficial.