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the NUTritionist Archive
Densie Webb, Ph.D.,
R.D. co-author of The Dish on Eating Healthy
and Being Fabulous! answers questions about diets,
health and pecans. |
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Q. I’ve heard that nuts, including
Georgia pecans, are considered “brain food.” Can eating
pecans really benefit my brain? |
A. It’s true this
brain-shaped nut, is actually good for your brain.
Georgia pecans are rich in nutrients that research shows
benefit the brain. Pecans are also good sources of
vitamin E, and higher levels of vitamin E in the blood
have been linked with less decline of mental function
with age. Part of that benefit may be due to the fact
that eating nuts helps reduce the risk of stroke.
Moreover, studies indicate that eating pecans can reduce
the risk of heart disease and diabetes, two conditions
that can damage arteries and decrease blood flow the
brain, ultimately damaging brain function.
In addition, pecans are a good source of omega-3 fatty
acids, which plays several important roles in brain
function. One of those roles may be to help prevent
depression, which has a direct effect on brain function
and the ability to think clearly.
Magnesium
is the fourth most abundant element in the brain.
Studies show that if you don’t get enough, it can throw
brain functioning off balance, resulting in confusion,
anxiety and depression. A one-ounce serving of pecans
provides between 9%-11% of the day’s recommended intake
for magnesium.
And the natural antioxidant compounds found in pecans
(their antioxidant power ranks right up there with some
fruits and vegetables) may help fend off free radical
damage to brain cells. |
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