Pistachio toxicity and contraindications

Toxicity of pistachios

Toxicity of Pistacia vera

Pistachios that are preserved in poor condition can develop aflatoxins. Aflatoxins are mycotoxins with toxic, carcinogenic and deadly effect.

Therefore, it is desirable to choose pistachios in perfect conditions.

To be good, they should not be rancid or present any odor or bad taste.

Pistachios

Pistachios

Contraindications and side effects of pistachios

Children under 3 years: The consumption of nuts is contraindicated in children under 3 years. They can trigger a food allergy since they are introduce too early and the immune system is still immature.

Besides, pistachios are not suitable for this age because young children are learning to chew properly and may choke trying to eat them.

People who are allergic to nuts: We should note that allergy symptoms are immediate (0-1,5h) and manifest as rashes, swelling, hives or eczema, itching, breathing problems, anaphylaxis, or even death, etc.

People with intolerance to nuts: They should not take pistachios, because although the symptoms are less strong and less dangerous than in people with allery to nuts, they are still avoidable.

Symptoms of intolerance differ with those of an allergy, being milder and appear later (hours-days). They usually appear as diarrhea, vomiting, depression, headache or migraines, etc.

People with sodium problems: Pistachios often contain too much salt. Excess sodium is counterproductive in people with hypertension and those with water retention (Hydropsy).

NO matter if you have any disease, it is always best to eat unsalted or low-sodium pistachios.

More information on pistachios.

This article was endorsed by Elisenda Carballido - Dietitian nutritionist. Postgraduate in Phytotherapy and master in Nutrition and Metabolism.
Editorial
Written by Editorial Botanical-online team in charge of content writing

9 July, 2024

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