Pecans are more than just pie or trail mix ingredients. The health properties in pecans are vast and may help to improve digestive health, cardiovascular problems, bone health, and aid with weight loss. People may argue that pecans are bad because they contain fats, but those people don’t understand that the fats in pecans help to boost antioxidant production and reduce inflammation.
Pecan Fact: The pecan pie, which Americans have come to know and love, is actually a classic South American dish that features pecans as the primary ingredient.
Good For Heart Health
Pecans are beneficial for your heart because of their antioxidant content. The monounsaturated fats also work to prevent coronary artery disease and stroke, but only if you are making other dietary changes to decrease your risk of heart disease. Pecans also help to inhibit the oxidation of blood lipids, which may reduce the risk of heart disease.
Reduces Inflammation
The copper in pecans works to strengthen the anti-inflammatory properties, especially in people with arthritis or joint pain. Pecans are commonly recommended to those who have arthritis. Studies have shown that increasing magnesium intake can help reduce chronic inflammation, and pecans have magnesium! Just don’t eat too many at once.
Boosts The Immune System
Pecans are rich in manganese, which is a powerful trace mineral and potent antioxidant that works to protect nerve cells from free radical damage. Regular intake of manganese is essential for healthy brain and nerve function.
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.
The rich, buttery flavor of pecans is what makes them great to use in homemade energy bites or desserts. April 14th is National Pecan Day, so let’s make some recipes! Speaking of using them in recipes, try making one of our favorite pecan recipes (listed below) and let us know how they turn out for you in the comments.
Blueberry Pecan Breakfast Bowl
This is what you would call an atypical breakfast. It is unique, filling, and replete with tons of vitamins and minerals to fuel your day.
Pumpkin Pecan Pie Bites
Chewy pecan and cranberry “crusts” topped with creamy pumpkin frosting. A gluten free and vegan treat perfect for anyone who is a fan of pecans.
Click here to make the recipe.
No Bake Pecan Energy Bites
You can never have enough snacks, especially when you are cleansing. Make these energy bites on the weekend so that they are ready to go when you need them. These are like bites of pecan pie goodness!
Click here to make the recipe.
