Celebrated since 1996 in the United States, National Pecan Day, which occurs annually on April 14th, was initiated by the National Pecan Shellers Association (NPSA). The goal was to encourage people to snack on, cook with, bake with, and enjoy the flavor of the almighty pecan. Pecans have a buttery-sweet taste that work well in desserts, salads, appetizers, snack mixes, or entrees.
People, especially Americans, love to snack. The demand for healthier snacks has increased, due to climbing rates of obesity, diabetes, heart disease, and cancer. Common snacks are often unhealthy and filled with processed ingredients, chemicals, artificial flavors, and refined sugars, all of which are difficult for the body to process. Try to snack on a handful of pecans, instead! They are actually pretty nutritious. In fact, one ounce of pecans amounts to 200 calories and contains three grams of fiber, 20 grams of unsaturated fats, three grams of protein, 0.2 milligrams of thiamin (vitamin B1), and many other antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals.
Pecan Fact: The name “Pecan” literally translates to “a nut requiring a stone to crack.” They were pretty literal with naming things back in the day, since you have to crack the shell in order to eat the pecan.
Important For Immune Health
As previously mentioned, pecans contain many vitamins and minerals, but they also contain powerful phytonutrients. Pecans are also great sources of zinc, which is a necessary mineral for optimal immune cell function and development. Statistically, people who maintain regular zinc intake have a reduced risk of a variety of health conditions, specifically those that are related to age and lifestyle.
A Boost For Your Brain
Chew on this for a second, people: pecans are some of the best dietary sources of vitamin E, which is an antioxidant that comes in eight isoforms. Alpha-tocopherol is the preferred form of vitamin E that is used by the human body, and there are 0.4 milligrams of alpha-tocopherol in a one-ounce serving of pecans. Regular vitamin E intake has been associated with a reduced risk of Alzheimer’s disease and dementia. Vitamin E works to reduce oxidative stress that is caused by inflammation, which is believed to increase one’s risk of cognitive decline.
Minerals For Growth And Metabolism
People are typically focused on maintaining sufficient vitamin and antioxidant intake, but too often do they neglect the importance of minerals. Pecans are excellent sources of minerals, including manganese and copper, both of which contain enzyme components that the body needs to execute physiological reactions in cells. These minerals contribute to healthy growth and they work to regulate metabolism.
We could present precise pecan facts all day, but we think it’s time to prepare pleasant pecan meals. You are welcome for the alliteration.
Roasted Brussels Sprouts With Cranberries & Pecans
Making Brussels sprouts taste good can be a challenge, but this recipe will have you craving them every day.
Click here to make the recipe.
Mixed Green Deli Style Salad With A Mustard Vinaigrette
You can’t beat a tasty salad that is filled with beautiful flavor combinations and varying textures. Keep your palate interested with this unique deli-style salad.
Click here to make the recipe.
Vegan Stuffed Acorn Squash
Even though this dish is filled with the spices and ingredients of fall, these stuffed acorn squash are perfect for any time of year. And it is an incredibly filling dish!
Click here to make the recipe.
