**4. Modulation of glucose**

The beneficial role of nuts in the metabolism of glucose and insulin has been associated with secondary active metabolite, minerals, fats, and fiber contents. It has been shown that PUFA, carotenoids such as β-carotene and lutein, γ-tocopherols, and procyanidins content of pistachio [40], PUFA content of walnuts and the fat and fiber content of almonds are responsible for these beneficial effects [44]. A published study reported that walnuts induced significantly positive effect at the initial phases of nutritional change in a PUFA-delivered healthy diet. The effect of pistachios on insulin and postprandial glucose, endothelial function, and gut hormone has been

*The Beneficial Health Effects of Nuts in the Diet DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.5772/intechopen.109100*

assessed by Kendall et al. The results demonstrated that the consumption of pistachios reduced the postprandial glycemia, insulin-sparing properties and increased glucagon-like-peptide levels [45].

In one 12-week study of people with metabolic syndrome who ate 1 ounce (25 g) of pistachios twice 2 days, there was a 9% decrease in fasting glucose [51].

## **5. Conclusion**

Nuts are the richest source of healthy nutrients. They are loaded with vitamins, minerals, fibers, and other bioactive compounds. Nuts are nutrients-containing plants. They are used all over the world for nutritional purposes. These have many beneficial effects on health. Bioactive phytochemicals present in nuts are vital for the cognitive function, with positive impact on neurodegeneration and aging. A novel phytochemical present in pistachios, which is called Lutein, provides significant health impacts affecting the cognitive function. Nut consumption reduces the risk of coronary heart diseases, cancer, inflammation, diabetes, and osteoporosis. They are also involved in weight loss.
