Denver Broncos And New England Patriots Nutrition Experts Team Up To Support American Pistachio Growers

FRESNO, Calif., Jan. 28, 2014 /PRNewswire/ -- American Pistachio Growers (APG) today announced the addition of two key ambassadors to their list of athletes and nutrition experts:  Bryan Snyder, Team Nutrition Manager for the Denver Broncos and Ted Harper, Team Sports Dietitian for the New England Patriots.  Having just played each other in the AFC Championship Game on January 19, it is now determined the Denver Broncos will head to the ultimate game on February 2.  In their roles, both men are tasked with developing the year-round nutrition strategies that are designed to support the intense physical requirements of their players and ultimately, the world championship. 

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While millions of people struggle with weight and weight-related health issues, nutrition goals can fall by the wayside when leisure time includes snacking or party fare.  Pistachios, long known as a heart-healthy tree nut and the lowest calorie nut per serving, now can be counted as an ideal snack for these occasions, thanks to recent research.

The New England Journal of Medicine (11/20/13) published a study that showed people who eat a handful of nuts (including pistachios) daily had a 20% lower death rate over the course of the 30-year research project, the largest study of its kind.  In addition, other supporting studies showed people who eat nuts regularly tend to remain leaner due to an association with reduced waist sizes and less weight gain throughout the course of life, compared to individuals who do not regularly eat nuts. 

"This is good news for football fans who want to live to see their team win that "perfect season," according to Judy Hirigoyen, Director of Global Marketing for American Pistachio Growers.  "We're pleased that, in addition to advising their pro players, Ted Harper and Bryan Snyder will be helping fans understand how mindful snacking can fit into their own nutrition plan.   While their performance goals are quite different, the ultimate goal of living a healthy and happy life is universal," she continued. 

While they're rivals on the playing field, Harper and Snyder agree on a point that's important to hundreds of pistachios growers:  Pistachios are an ideal snack, whether you're a professional athlete or an armchair spectator. 

"Pistachios are one of the best recommendations I can make because they're packed with nutrients and they're so versatile," says Harper. 

"We're all concerned about our heart health and living a healthy, active lifestyle. It's important you make smart choices regarding your nutrition so you can support your goals," adds Snyder. 

The addition of Harper and Snyder follows APG's announcement in October that British pro cyclist Mark Cavendish (the most stage wins at the Tour de France) is the newest APG Brand Ambassador and his dietitian, Nigel Mitchell, an expert nutrition ambassador for the growers' association.  Says Hirigoyen, "In their roles, Mitchell, Harper and Snyder will reach millions of health-conscience sports enthusiasts and educate them on the health benefits of pistachios, a favorite snack.  It's a message they'll be very happy to hear." 

Both teams enjoy pistachios throughout the year for good health.

About American Pistachio Growers

American Pistachio Growers (APG) is a non-profit voluntary trade association representing 585 grower members in California, Arizona and New Mexico. APG is governed by an 18-member board of directors who are growers and is funded entirely by growers and independent processors with the shared goal of increasing global awareness of nutritious, American-grown pistachios. The United States has been #1 in global pistachio production since 2008.  For more information, please visit AmericanPistachios.org.

SOURCE American Pistachio Growers