A Heart-Smart Food
Pecans contain the same heart-healthy unsaturated fats that are found in other nuts, and nearly two decades of research suggests that nuts, including pecans, may help maintain a healthy heart and cholesterol levels.
Four landmark observation studies have that found an association between total nut consumption (peanuts and tree nuts) and a significantly decreased risk of heart disease. The greatest reduction of heart disease risk and deaths from heart attacks was among people who ate five or more 1-ounce servings of nuts per week. Pecans are the third most frequently consumed tree nut in the country.
The Adventist Health Study
A possible protective effect of nut consumption on risk of coronary heart disease
Nurses’ Health Study
Frequent nut consumption and risk of coronary heart disease in women: prospective cohort study
Iowa Womens’ Health Study
Frequent nut intake and risk of death from coronary heart disease and all causes in postmenopausal women: the Iowa Women's Health Study
Physicians’ Health Study
Nut consumption and risk of mortality in the Physicians’ Health Study
As a result of the scientific evidence supporting the cardiovascular benefits of nuts, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration approved the first qualified health claim for a whole food in 2003:
Scientific evidence suggests but does not prove that eating 1.5 ounces per day of most nuts, such as pecans, as part of a diet low in saturated fat and cholesterol may reduce the risk of heart disease.
One serving of pecans contains 18 grams of “good” unsaturated fat and only 2 grams of saturated fat.
A Fan Favorite
One Pan Wonder
Blogger “Running to the Kitchen” knows how to create a winning weeknight meal – with nutritious pecans, hints of cinnamon, Dijon mustard and all done on one pan! Make this sheet pan meal for a quick, easy, and delicious dinner!
A Super(food) Snack
Bloggers Alex and Sonja share Superfood Energy bars - kid-approved and perfect for adult snacking too!
Covered In Pecans
Blogger “Defined Dish” shares Pecan-crusted turkey meatballs – the perfect versatile dish that can be served as an app, salad or main.
Pecan Swap!
Ground pecans are used in place of breadcrumbs for a nutritious all-purpose topper in this recipe for Braised Artichokes with Garlic Pecan Breadcrumbs from blogger “Lexi’s Clean Kitchen.”
All About that Glaze
This pecan glazed ham recipe from blogger "Kitchen Konfidence" is an elegant centerpiece that's simple to prepare. A sweet and smoky pecan glaze is balanced by a hint of citrus - the perfect dish for your spring gathering.
Serving-Up Nature’s Bowl
In this Women's Health recipe round-up Ellie Krieger, RD, suggests pairing spaghetti squash with "naturally sweet and nutrition powerhouse" pecans, linking to a Stuffed Spaghetti Squash with pecans recipe.
A Delicious Dip
Smoky, simple and naturally sweet from pecans - this vegetarian dip from blogger "Faring Well" is the perfect snack to have on hand!
Sweet, Savory and Seasonal
Blogger "Full Helping" shares a power packed salad that crunchy, colorful and chock full of nutritious ingredients.
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