Pecans, like most tree nuts, are packed with nutrients. They boast of many health benefits due to their powerhouse nutrients. In the past, pecans were mainly recognized for their medicinal purposes. Today, however, they are mainly used as an ingredient in dishes due to their rich buttery flavour and sweetness. Here are a few reasons they make a great addition to your diet.
1. Improve Brain Function
Pecans have high levels of minerals that contribute to brain function. They also contain thiamine and copper, which help to prevent diseases like Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s. Its high levels of manganese also help to increase concentration levels.
2. Keep your Heart Healthy
High cholesterol levels are one of the risk factors for heart disease. Pecans contain oleic acid and phenolic antioxidants, which help to reduce this risk. Furthermore, they help lower bad cholesterol levels while increasing good cholesterol levels. Health And Nutrition: Foods To Improve And Lower Cholesterol Levels
3. Aid in Weight Loss
Pecans are packed with healthy fats that impact the ghrelin hormone, which is responsible for maintaining weight. When high grehlin levels are high, you will likely experience stress and the desire to overeat. Pecans maintain levels of grehlin, thereby helping you lose weight.
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4. Reduces Symptoms of PMS
Premenstrual syndrome, also known as PMS, occurs in women one or two weeks before their period. PMS causes symptoms such as mood swings, bloating, tender breasts, and cramps. Pecans contain high levels of manganese and calcium, which help to deal with these symptoms.
5. Help your Digestive System
Pecans are rich in dietary fibre, an essential nutrient in your body. It helps to prevent constipation, haemorrhoids, and other gastrointestinal issues by flushing the digestive tract. Health and Fitness: Natural Remedies for Constipation
6. Prevent Gallstones
Gallstones are small stones made of cholesterol that form in the gallbladder. Although they usually don’t cause symptoms, they are likely to block the bile duct in some circumstances. This ends up causing immense pain in the abdomen. The combination of nutrients in pecans helps to prevent gallstones.
7. Stimulate Hair Growth
Pecans are a good source of L-arginine, an amino acid that stimulates hair growth. L-arginine increases the flexibility of the artery walls and makes them prone to blood clots. This helps to increase blood flow to the hair roots, which is vital for a healthy scalp.
8. Rich in Antioxidants
Antioxidants play an essential role in your body. They protect your cells against radicals that cause cancer, arthritis, diabetes, and heart disease. Most tree nuts contain flavonoids, a type of antioxidant primarily found in fruits and vegetables. However, pecans contain more flavonoids than other nuts like almonds and walnuts.
9. Prevent Skin Related Issues
Pecans contain three powerful vitamins, A, C, E, and minerals like zinc, magnesium, and phosphorus. These nutrients play a role in maintaining good skin by eliminating toxins that cause acne. They also fight radicals that lead to wrinkles and hyperpigmentation. Therefore, including them in your diet can help you to maintain clear skin. Skincare: Hyperpigmentation – Causes, Prevention And Treatment
Possible Side Effects
Unlike most nuts, pecans have little to no side effects. However, it is good to be cautious. You should go for a checkup if you experience vomiting, swelling, or shortness of breath. You might have a nut allergy. Managing your portions is also essential to avoid stomach issues.
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