Culinary Corner: The Powerful Pecan

March 26, 2019

Pecan nuts in closeupIt’s probably no coincidence that a pecan resembles the human brain. This crunchy nut is a nutritional powerhouse, packing an incredible amount of goodness into a tiny, tasty package.

Among the nutrients you’ll find inside are:

Magnesium: Low magnesium can cause high blood pressure, osteoporosis, fatigue, and irregular heartbeat. Luckily, the pecan contains nearly 11% of the daily recommended amount.

Omega-3 fatty acids: Studies show that consumption of omega-3 rich foods can reduce the risk of neural degeneration.

Copper: This essential mineral is important for brain function, creating norepinephrine, which your brain cells use to communicate.

Zinc: It activates antioxidant enzymes that protect your brain from free-radical damage.

So go ahead, grab a handful and enjoy these bite-sized, nutrient-packed treats — your brain will thank you!