Top 10 Health Benefits of Pecans

Why did we choose the Pecan to make our nut butter? There are multiple reasons but one of the biggest reasons is they are native to our region and they have a positive impact on our ecosystems. The large-scale production of other nuts that are commonly used for nut butters are extractive and damage the environment. In addition, they make great orchards to graze our cattle, sheep and free-range hogs and pasture-raised chickens under. The pecan trees provide great shade and forage for these animals, while the animals help fertilize and minimize insect impact on the Pecans.

Pecans are also very healthy for us. In fact, pecans rank among the top 15 foods with the highest levels of antioxidants according to the USDA. They are also a powerhouse of vitamins and minerals such as manganese, potassium, calcium, iron, magnesium, and zinc offering some wonderful health benefits.

1. Boosts Immunity
   Pecans are a rich source of manganese which is a powerful antioxidant. This trace mineral protects your nerve cells from free-radical damage, thus boosting immunity and protecting the body from diseases and infections.
   
   
2. 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, and also reduces inflammation in the arterial walls, thus reducing the risk of inflammatory ailments such as cardiovascular disease and arthritis.
   
   
3. Heart Healthy
   Pecan nuts contain monounsaturated fats such as oleic acid along with phenolic antioxidants which help reduce the risk of heart disease. According to 4 Landmark observation studies that found an association between total nut consumption and a significantly reduced risk of heart disease, found that the greatest reduction of heart disease risk and deaths from heart attacks was among people who ate five or more 1 ounce servings of nuts per week. They found adding a handful of pecan nuts in your diet helps decrease LDL i.e. ‘bad cholesterol’, which in could turn prevent stroke and coronary artery disease.
   
   
4. Improves Digestion
   Since Pecan nuts are fiber -packed, and 1 ounce provides 11% DV of fiber they promote good colon health and facilitate regular bowel movements. Pecan nuts can prevent constipation and reduce the risk of hemorrhoids and colitis by cleaning out the gastrointestinal system.
   
   
5. Helps with Weight Loss
   Consuming nuts enhances satiety and increases metabolism, research has indicated that a diet comprised of pecans can actually promote weight loss and maintain a healthy weight. The nuts are also very rich sources of several important B-complex groups of vitamins such as riboflavin, niacin, thiamin, pantothenic acid, vitamin B-6, and folates which together help increase the rate of metabolism.
   
   
6. Reduces the Risk of Certain Cancer
   Pecan are a rich source of oleic acid, a fatty acid which has been found to reduce the risk of breast cancer. In addition, pecans may also reduce the risk of colon cancer since they are high in fiber and help clean the gastrointestinal system.
7. Prevents Skin Problems
   Pecan nuts are an excellent source of vitamin-E, zinc, folate and phosphorous which are nutrients that contribute to premature aging and maintaining good skin. Toxins inside the body may cause acne, dullness and excess oil. Pecans are packed with fiber and aid in eliminating these toxins and waste from the body; consequently, improving the appearance of your skin.
   
   8. Anti-aging Benefits
   Pecan contain numerous antioxidants including ellagic acid, and vitamin E which are nutrients that contribute to eliminating the free radicals responsible for causing premature skin aging.
   
   9. Stimulates Hair Growth
   Pecans are an excellent source of L-arginine. L-arginine is an amino acid which promotes blood flow to the roots of your hair. The L-arginine helps increase flexibility of the artery walls which in turn increases the rate of blood flow throughout the body and to the hair roots which is a basic requirement for healthy hair growth. 
   
   10. Prevents Hair Loss
   Lack of Iron in the body leads to anemia which can cause you to have a weakened immune system. There is also a connection between iron deficiency and hair loss, but Pecans are a good source of iron; therefore, they can help combat hair loss.

Now if you need an immunity boost along with all the other exciting nutritional and health benefits of Pecans, you’re in luck! We have a daily source in a convenient squeeze pouch that is delicious! CLICK TO SHOP

Article Sources:
https://www.nutstop.com/health-benefits-of-pecans/ 
https://americanpecan.com/health-nutrition/the-original-supernut/
https://www.healthline.com/health/ellagic-acid