Organic Raw Pecans

General Description

The pecan is, technically, not a nut but is a drupe - a fruit with a single, stone or pit, surround by a husk. They are oblong, white and covered with a thin dark brown skin.

History

Pecans originate from the Mississippi Valley in the United States. They were a staple of the Native American diet before the arrival of the Europeans. It is the national tree of the State of Texas, which is happens to be the origin of the pecans PRANA offers to you.

Nutritional benefits

The pecans contain many health benefiting nutrients. They are very rich in omega-6 and they contain over 19 vitamins and minerals - including vitamin A, vitamin E, folic acid, calcium, magnesium, phosphorus, potassium, zinc and several B vitamins.

■ These nuts are rich in protein and monounsaturated fatty acids like oleic acid and are an excellent source of antioxidants.

■ The antioxidants and phytosterols content in pecans reduce cholesterol in the blood by decreasing the damage caused by LDL, also known as “bad” cholesterol. These antioxidants also reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease, certain cancers and diseases associated with aging. A diet rich in pecans can also reduce the risk of kidney stones in women.

■ Pecan nuts are rich source of vitamin E, beta-carotenes, lutein and zeaxanthin. Research studies have been suggestive that these compounds help body remove toxic oxygen free radicals and thus, protect body from diseases, cancers as well as infections.
■ Pecans contain 196% of your daily requirement of manganese, 133% of copper and 163% of your daily intake in Vitamine E.

Thanks to their high content of vitamin E, pecans can play a role in protecting neurological health as well. Daily consumption of pecans can delay the degeneration of muscle nerves.

Uses

Whether they are raw, roasted, salted or sweetened - pecans are an absolutely delectable food! Pecans can be eaten by themselves as a snack, or as an ingredient in smoothies, nut milk, desserts, raw pie crust, energy bars or the infamous pecan pie.

You want to cook with pecans! Try our delicious PRANA Recipes : Unsweetened Nut Milk , Pecan-Hazelnut Cookies