Pecans are a sweet and crunchy treat with an impressive nutritional profile. Pecan nutrition includes manganese, magnesium, zinc, phosphorus and potassium, among other vitamins and minerals. Thanks to these nutrients, pecan benefits include the ability to reduce inflammation the body, improve brain function, treat diabetes and more.
1. Helps Maintain Energy and Aid in Weight Loss
Pecan benefits include the ability to help maintain energy levels and promote weight loss. They contain healthy fats that help keep you feeling full while providing the body with an energy source. Pecan nutrition also includes manganese, which has been shown to aid in weight loss.
2. Prevents Oxidative Stress
Pecan nutrition is high in healthy fats and antioxidants. These nutrients work to reduce oxidative stress in the body, which can lead to cancer and heart disease. Studies have shown that people who consume more nuts have a lower risk of many diseases, including cardiovascular problems like atherosclerosis. (1)
3. Contributes to a Healthy Heart
Pecan benefits include the ability to improve heart health. The antioxidants they contain help naturally lower blood pressure to reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease. Pecan benefits are commonly seen in the Mediterranean diet, which is known to significantly reduce blood pressure levels and improve heart health. Studies have shown that a diet high in monunsaturated fat, including pecans, can help reduce the risk of heart-related conditions. (2)
4. Reduces Inflammation
Pecan benefits include the ability to lower inflammation in the body. Inflammation is often at the root of many health problems. The antioxidants in pecans help fight inflammatory conditions, including arthritis.
5. May Help Prevent Osteoporosis
Pecan nutrition includes manganese, copper and zinc. These nutrients are known to help treat osteoporosis symptoms. Studies have shown that pecan benefits the bones by increasing bone mass and decreasing the risk of bone loss. Research suggests that pecans may be especially beneficial for women who are suffering from bone loss related to osteoporosis.
6. Improves Brain Function
Pecan benefits include the ability to boost brain function. Pecan nutrition includes copper, which plays an important role in brain function. Copper helps stop free radical damage, which can lead to degenerative damage and disease such as Parkinson’s disease and Alzheimer’s disease. Studies have shown that pecan nutrition can also help improve focus and mood. (3)
7. Reduces PMS Symptoms
Pecan benefits include the ability to relieve painful and uncomfortable PMS symptoms, thanks to the nutrients they contain. Pecans contain manganese, which plays a key role in reducing PMS symptoms like cramps and mood swings. (4)
8. Helps Treat Diabetes
Pecan benefits include the ability to help treat diabetes. Studies have shown that manganese-rich foods, including pecans, are associated with better insulin secretion. Research suggests that pecan benefits include the ability to increase glucose tolerance and naturally treat diabetes symptoms.