Since pistachios are also rich in fiber together with protein, they can increase the feeling of fullness and make a person cut down their food consumption. In one study that lasted for 12 weeks, it was found that people who ate about 53 grams of pistachios every afternoon reduced their body mass index twice as much as the individuals who ate 56 grams of pretzels. Another study showed that people who ate in-shell pistachios consumed 41 percent fewer calories than those who ate shelled pistachios.

I had just decided to focus more on academics, less on dance training, so I drastically cut down my physical activity. Between that and the hormonal changes affecting my 16-year-old body, I started gaining some weight.