Pecan means a nut which requires a stone to crack. Pecan is not truly a nut, but technically a drupe, a fruit with a single stone or pit which is surrounded by a husk. The seeds of the pecan are edible with a rich buttery flavor. Pecans are eaten raw or used for cooking in various recipes. Pecans nutrition include source of dietary fiber, manganese, magnesium, phosphorus, zinc, proteins, iron, vitamins. Pecans have the highest fat content of all nut. There are numerous pecan benefits thats why it should be incorporated in your diet.
Pecan health benefits (bhidurakaashth phal, Carya illinoinensis)
Cardiovascular Health
Pecan nuts are rich in fiber which boosts the health of your heart by reducing the risk of coronary heart disease and preventing some forms of cancer. It also contains monounsaturated fats like oleic acid (1) along with phenolic antioxidants that are healthy for the heart and help prevent coronary artery disease and strokes.
Digestive Health
The fiber in pecan nuts benefits colon health and facilitates regular bowel movements. It enables the colon to work at greater levels of efficiency by cleaning out the gastrointestinal system.
Helps in Weight Loss
Diet comprising of nuts such as pecan benefits in losing weight. This is because nut consumption enhances satiety and increases metabolism. So it is the best nuts for weight loss.
Reduces the Risk of Breast Cancer
Pecans contain oleic acid, a fatty acid which has been found to reduce the risk of breast cancer.
Bone and Teeth Health
Phosphorus is one of the most abundant minerals in the body after calcium. Besides cleansing the waste from the body, phosphorus, along with calcium, promotes the health of bones and teeth.
Anti-inflammatory Benefits
Pecan nuts are rich in magnesium which is known for its anti-inflammatory benefits. It also reduces inflammation in the arterial walls, thus reducing the risk of cardiovascular disease, arthritis, Alzheimer’s disease and other inflammatory ailments.
Reduces Blood Pressure
Magnesium in pecans has been shown to help lower blood pressure. Though pecans cannot cure hypertension, they do help lower it.
Reduces the Risk of Stroke
Pecan being a good source of magnesium can form part of the diet to reduces the risk of stroke.
Anti-cancer Properties
Pecans are rich in phytochemical substances such as polyphenolic antioxidant ellagic acid, vitamin E, beta-carotene, lutein and zea-xanthin (2). These play an important role in removing toxic oxygen-free radicals, thus protecting body from diseases, cancer and infections.
Strengthens the Immune System
Pecans are a rich source of manganese which is a powerful antioxidant. Pecan benefits to boost immunity and protects your nerve cells from free-radical damage. Adequate intake of manganese is vital for nerve conduction and brain function.
Pecan benefits for Skin (Carya illinoinensis)
Anti-aging Benefits
Pecan nuts benefits contain numerous antioxidants including ellagic acid (3), vitamin A and vitamin E. These antioxidants fight and eliminate the free radicals which are responsible for causing premature skin aging.
Prevents Skin Problem
External appearance of our skin depends upon how we treat it from the inside. Thus, adequate nutrition is essential for maintaining a healthy skin and preventing skin problems. The toxins inside the body can make your skin suffer by causing breakouts, dullness and excess oil. Pecan nuts are a good source of fiber which can do wonders for the skin. Pecan benefits in the elimination of toxins and waste from the body, thereby improving the appearance of your skin.
Helps Maintain Clear Complexion
Pecans contain zinc which helps in maintaining skin health by guarding against infections. Vitamin A is an antioxidant which gives a clear complexion.
Pecan benefits for Hair
Stimulates Hair Growth
Pecans are an excellent source of L-arginine, an amino acid which, when applied topically helps treat male pattern baldness as well as encourage the growth of healthy hair. Vibrant blood flow throughout the body and to the hair roots is vital for healthy hair growth and scalp.
Prevents Hair Loss
Anemia is one of the common causes of hair loss. It is caused by iron deficiency in the blood. Pecans, being a good source of iron, can be included in the diet to improve your blood iron levels and hence, combat hair loss.
