They live in river basins in North America and Mexico. That side, of pecan nuts They were highly valued by pre-colonial residents. Historians say they were favored for their easy access to waterways, because they were easier to peel than other nuts, and because they had a good flavor.
The name “pecan” or “pecan” The words of the Algonquin First NationsPakan” alludes to this fruit as “the fruit of the tree that requires the breaking of stones.”
Its consumption quickly spread throughout the United States and Europe, but regions such as Asia and Latin America were not far behind. In the case of Argentina, the country’s Ministry of Agriculture, Livestock and Fisheries reports: Pecan nuts were introduced by Domingo Faustino Sarmiento in the 19th century. “Some of the very old trees found on ranches in the province of Buenos Aires may have originated from their first seeds.”
It is distinguished from other nuts and dried fruits by several nutritional and functional aspects. Unlike other doctors, Dr. Raul Marais, a physician specializing in nutrition and former president of the Argentine Association of Dietitians and Physicians (SAMENUT), explains: Pecan nuts are high in fat and low in carbohydrate content. “It contains a lot of oleic acid, the same as olive oil, and It has a near-zero glycemic index, making it ideal for use by diabetics and on a ketogenic diet.” he added.
It is rich in polyphenols, tocopherols (vitamin E), and flavonoids. Another fact Murray doesn’t overlook is the feeling of fullness it provides.. The latter is meant to be included in a weight loss diet, he points out.
Other most notable benefits of consumption include:
1. Prevention and protection of cardiovascular events
The prestigious Mayo Clinic reports that eating nuts as part of a healthy diet is good for your heart. “Although most nuts generally appear to be healthy, some nuts may contain more heart-healthy nutrients than others. For example: Walnuts are rich in omega-3 fatty acids” reveals the facility.
Additionally, Dr. Murray reveals: The monounsaturated fats it contains primarily play a role in reducing LDL cholesterol. (commonly referred to as “bad”) and increased HDL.
2. Immune defense
“Pecan nuts” “It contains vitamin A, vitamin E, and zinc, which strengthen the immune system and allow the body to fight infections and repair damage.” WebMD, a professional health portal, reports. It also provides folic acid, which protects against DNA changes that can cause severe symptoms, he added.
3. Anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects
Research published in journals nutrients Researchers evaluated a diet rich in pecans for four weeks, and towards the end A reduction in inflammatory markers such as high-sensitivity CRP (hs-CRP) and certain pro-inflammatory cytokines was observed in participants. This is associated with high levels of monounsaturated fatty acids, phytosterols, tocopherols (vitamin E) and polyphenols, which regulate the expression of inflammatory genes, Murray added.
Similarly, the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) classifies: 100 foods were chosen based on their antioxidant compound content, and pecans were in the top 20.
According to Dr. Murray: Pecan nuts contain vitamins E, B1, B3, and B9 and are an inexhaustible source of energy. At the same time, experts add, these compounds can help improve neurological function.
Regarding the amount and form of consumption, Murray predicts: A healthy daily intake ranges from 25 to 30 grams (equivalent to about 1/4 cup). “This amount is enough to get the effect without going into a calorie surplus or affecting your weight,” he emphasizes.
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