Health Benefits of Pecans
Health Benefits of Pecans
Pecans (Carya illinoinensis) are nuts from a species of hickory trees native to northern Mexico and the southern United States.
Pecans contain essential vitamins and minerals including copper, thiamine, zinc, magnesium, phosphorus and iron.
Pecans are rich in fiber that may help promote weight loss and a healthy digestion.
Pecans are rich in monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats that are heart healthy fats.
Pecans may help reduce inflammation.
Pecans are rich in antioxidants including polyphenols. Antioxidants help fight free radicals in the body and may help prevent the risk of chronic diseases.
Pecans may help regulate blood sugar levels. Studies have shown that 26 obese or overweight adults that consumed a pecan rich diet for 4 weeks improved the body’s ability to use insulin effectively.
Pecans may promote brain health. Studies have shown that adults who consumed at least 1/3 oz of nuts per day were 40% less likely to have poor cognition.
Pecans may promote heart health. Studies have shown that consuming 2.5 oz of pecans daily for 8 weeks had significantly lower levels of bad cholesterol.
Pecans may also reduce the risk of gallstones. Pecans may also help with symptoms of menstruation including cramps and mood swings.
Pecans may also help promote skin health, hair health and eye health.
If you are allergic to pecans or any nuts then please do not consume.
As always consult with your physician.
Sources:
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pecan
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5872757/
https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/eating-pecans-may-prevent-obesity-diabetes
https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/are-pecans-good-for-you