Ingredients such as the olive oil and pine nuts are higher in calories, because they have a high fat content. However, what makes this food considered “healthy” is that the fat is unsaturated.
Pesto is a delicious sauce often made from basil, olive oil, garlic, Parmesan cheese and pine nuts. All of these ingredients have health benefits and can be included in a well-balanced, healthy diet. Ingredients such as the olive oil and pine nuts are higher in calories, because they have a high fat content. However, what makes this food considered “healthy” is that the fat is unsaturated. When consumed in moderation, unsaturated fat can contribute to an improvement in cholesterol, as well as decrease inflammation in your body. Lowering inflammation is good because inflammation is associated with a higher risk for heart disease, cancer, diabetes, Alzheimer’s, and many other conditions associated with aging.
If you like pesto, by all means, include it in your diet, but just make sure to do so in moderation, because the calories can add up quickly!