2015-12-15
Joybynature.com Team
Dec
15

 

Image Source – Savoring Today

Pecan is the state tree of Texas and Native Americans are found to have used it for its medicinal value. Pecan trees can last up to 300 years of which it continues to bear fruits annually. Pecans are easily available throughout the year in major stores all over the world. Pecan full of various nutrients that provide many health benefits. Some of which are discussed below.

 

  1. Low cholesterol levels

High level of cholesterol in the body is one of the causes of several cardiovascular ailments that are common in the current society. Eating pecans on a regular basis carries out this function of balancing the cholesterol levels.

 

  1. Diabetes

Nuts such as pecans are beneficial in maintaining blood sugar levels especially for those suffering from diabetes. Their consumption is not only recommended for those with diabetic condition but for those aspiring to keep this medical condition at bay. Research study suggests that intake of nuts such as pecans may reduce risk of type 2 diabetes.

 

  1. Healthy heart

Health benefits of pecans include reduced risk of heart related ailments. . Nuts such as pecan have protein, vitamin E and oxidant properties which help in protecting the heart and reducing risk of hypertension.

 

  1. Abundant antioxidants

Pecan contains constituents like tocopherol and flavan-3-ol monomers, antioxidants, that help in in inhibiting oxidation of the lipids that exist in the blood which in turn offers protection against heart diseases.

  1. Bone and Teeth Health

Phosphorus is one of the most abundant minerals in the body after calcium. Nearly 85% of phosphorus is found in bones and teeth while the other 15% is found in cells and tissues. Besides cleansing the waste from the body, phosphorus, along with calcium, promotes the health of your bones and teeth. This mineral is also vital for the growth and repair of cells and tissues as well as production of DNA and RNA.

 

  1. Weight control

Pecans is also beneficial in managing weight. It is rich in fats but also contain protein and fiber which may make one feel full for longer duration and thus help in lowering intake of other high calorie foods.

 

  1. Gallstones

Consumption of nuts such as peanut, almonds and pecans etc., is also associated with reduced risk of gallstones. According to research, consumption of nuts on risk of gallstones suggest that frequent consumption may reduce risk of gallstone diseases in men.

 

  1. Cancer

Pecans are rich in phytochemical substances such as polyphenolic antioxidant ellagic acid, vitamin E, beta-carotene, lutein and zeaxanthin. These compounds play an important role in removing toxic oxygen-free radicals, thus protecting your body from diseases, cancer and infections. Ellagic acid possesses anti-proliferative properties which inhibit DNA binding of certain carcinogens such as nitrosamines and polycyclic hydrocarbons, thus protecting the human body from cancers.

 

  1. Anti-inflammatory Benefits:

Pecans are rich in magnesium which is known for its anti-inflammatory benefits. Studies have proved that increased magnesium intake reduces inflammatory indicators in the body such as CRP (C-reactive protein), TNF (tumor necrosis factor alpha) and IL6 (interleukin 6). It also reduces inflammation in the arterial walls, thus reducing the risk of cardiovascular disease, arthritis, Alzheimer’s disease and other inflammatory ailments.

 

10. Anti-aging Benefits:

Pecans contain numerous antioxidants including ellagic acid, vitamin A and vitamin E. These antioxidants fight and eliminate the free radicals which are responsible for causing premature skin aging. Thus, pecans can prevent the occurrence of signs of aging such as fine lines, wrinkles and pigmentation.

 

Staying healthy is a choice that one makes and it is possible by taking pecans or any other form of nuts or food that have nutritional value. Consuming a handful of pecans translates to ingestion of different types of nutrients into the body that would have been impossible even on taking the laboratory prepared supplements. It is edible both in raw state and can also be used in making other meals such as desserts. It is also commonly used by some people in preparation of savory meals. The famous pecan pie which is a common delicacy in the Southern United States derives its name from pecans which forms part of its key ingredients.

 

 

 

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