Relatives from Georgia brought unusual nuts as a gift to a friend. I accidentally saw them in his car and asked him to give me a few pieces for breeding. Since we live in the south, in the Krasnodar Territory, I thought that perhaps our climate would also be suitable for growing this interesting crop.
Pecan or mysterious culture
For a long time I could not even find out the name of the plant whose nuts I got. Outwardly, they are similar to walnuts, but more oblong and slightly pointed at the ends. The shell is smooth, thin, there are no partitions inside. The kernels look like those of walnuts, but the folds on them are not as sinuous.
The taste is softer and sweeter. Having reviewed more than one reference book and determinant, I realized that this is an ordinary pecan (or hazel illinois). Culture is able to bear fruit for 300-400 years! Belongs to the genus hickory of the walnut family. It is a spreading deciduous tree up to 60 m in height. Their leaves are like those of mountain ash, but larger - up to 50 cm in length and without notches along the edges.
On an industrial scale, pecans are grown in Central Asia and the southeastern United States. In our country, there are small plantings of it in the Caucasus and in the Crimea.
Pecan nut - 200 kg per tree!
The culture blooms in May-June. Pollinated by the wind. Male walnut flowers - earrings. Women are collected in inflorescences-spikelets - up to 11 pcs. in everyone.
Nuts are 8 cm long and 3 cm wide. They weigh up to 20 g. They ripen in September-October. The yield of old trees reaches 200 kg per tree. Young produce less fruit. Nut kernels are high in fat and can go rancid if stored too long. Pecans are eaten fresh and fried, used in cooking and in the confectionery industry.
Anyone who decides to grow these trees should take into account their impressive size. That is, under the pecan you will have to take a large part of the garden. Moreover, for fruiting, a culture requires at least 2 trees.
Winter Pecan Planting
Nuts before sowing need stratification. They are soaked for 3 days in water, and then planted before winter in pits with sand. Sprinkle with compost.
But the nuts fell into my hands before the New Year, when it was already snowing. So after soaking, I put them in a pot of wet sawdust and put them in the fridge. And in April I planted it in the country, deepening 5-7 cm into the soil. A month later, 5 strong seedlings sprouted. Now they are a year old. If you believe the information that I found, the seedlings will begin to bear fruit only at the age of 8-11 years.
In the south, pecans are also propagated by budding, grafting onto other varieties of the same crop, and cuttings. And then the trees begin to bear fruit after 4-5 years.
In a greenhouse or in a room?
The culture grows both in the sun and in partial shade. Likes fertile, loose, well-drained soils. Withstands a short-term decrease in temperature in winter to -30°C. Responsive to abundant watering, although it also tolerates drought.
Around young trees, it is necessary to weed, fertilize, loosen and mulch the soil. Seedlings can be transplanted to a permanent place from the age of one. At first, they do not grow quickly - 20-30 cm per year. Then their growth accelerates.
You can also grow pecans in a room, in a greenhouse, in a greenhouse. Only in dry apartment air, trees should be sprayed regularly. And in winter (from November to March), keep the plants in a cool room at a temperature of 8-12 °. During the dormant period, do not fertilize them and reduce watering.
Personally, I plan to sell 3 of my seedlings, and plant 2 in front of the country house. When they grow up, they will shade the yard in the summer heat.
If I am lucky enough to find pecan seedlings in nurseries, I will buy 2 more for planting behind the house so that cross-pollination occurs with my seedlings. If only the seedlings of the same variety as mine did not come across. Although this is unlikely, because more than 150 varieties of pecans have been bred. Among them, for the Russian climate, as I found out, they are considered the most suitable: Major, Textam, Green River, and Indiana. Stewart and Success.
Oleg Yaroshenko, Krasnodar Territory
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Pecan is a long-lived deciduous tree, up to 40-60 meters high. The crown of the plant is in the form of a tent, branched, up to 40 meters in diameter. The trunk is erect, grayish-brown in color with cracks. The kidneys are yellow, with pubescence. Shoots at the beginning of growth are also with brownish pubescence, but become bare over time. The leaves are large, long saturated green color, unpaired and pinnate, arranged alternately. The leaves are compound, consisting of lanceolate-elongated leaves arranged oppositely. Walnut flowers are represented by female and male, located on the tops of the shoots: male drooping, female - sessile. The tree blooms from late spring to June. Trees are pollinated by the wind, so for the ovary it is necessary to plant in the neighborhood with other trees.
The fruits of the tree are elongated drupes, up to 8 cm long. Their shell is fleshy and leathery, which eventually becomes woody and cracks. The walnut is oval brown with a pointed tip, smooth and wrinkled. Inside, the nuts are oily, similar to walnuts, but smoother and do not have partitions. Nuts can be eaten, nuts taste sweet.
The fruits ripen from early to mid-autumn, and then fall off. The tree bears fruit every year and abundantly after 9-11 years from the moment of sowing. If the tree is grown by grafting, then it gives the first crops after 4 years. In the first years of growth, yields are about 5 kg, later - up to 15 kg. Mature trees can yield up to 200 kg of fruit. The tree grows for about three hundred years.
Where can you grow pecans?
How to care for pecans
- In the early stages of growth, the pecan needs to be watered regularly and plentifully, as well as clearing the area of weeds.
- It is especially important to irrigate in dry, hot summers so that the soil does not dry out.
- It is also advisable to feed the tree and prune it for crown formation and rejuvenation. Pruning for shaping is carried out only on seedlings; adult nuts do not need to be pruned. In the spring, to rejuvenate the tree, dry, frozen and damaged branches are cut, as well as branches that thicken the crown.
Pecan nuts are attractive to gardeners because they almost do not get sick and are not damaged by pests. It is impossible to defeat even a nut codling moth, because. tree nuts are hidden under a solid shell compared to walnuts, which have a soft partition between the halves of the shell.
Fertilizing and Feeding Pecans
In the spring, it is imperative to fertilize the tree with nitrogen-containing preparations that stimulate the growth of young shoots. At the beginning of autumn, it is worth applying fertilizers containing phosphorus and potassium in order to stimulate the maturation of wood and the laying of a good plentiful harvest in the future. Thus, young trees are fed, while adult plants are fertilized in autumn with potassium salt, superphosphate and urea.
If the tree is properly cared for and planted correctly, it will yield crops in five years.
How to choose when buying and storing pecans?
When buying nuts from this tree, you need to monitor the condition of its core - it should be whole and fleshy. If you buy nuts in shell, it is better to choose clean ones and without any damage. At the same time, according to their size, they should be heavy. To prolong the storage of nuts in good condition, it is recommended to keep them in an airtight container, in the refrigerator or freezer. Pecans keep in the refrigerator for about 4 months, and in the freezer for up to six months. Before eating nuts for food, they need to be warmed up at room conditions to 20-23⁰С.
Pecan nut is an exotic representative that grows in North America, Central Asia, Crimea and southern regions of Russia. This species has many similarities with the walnut and is also very beneficial for the human body. By consuming a small amount of this product, you can prevent the appearance of many dangerous pathologies: hypertension, diabetes, high cholesterol, cancer or gallstone disease.
The pecan is an unpretentious plant and can grow in different climates. There are varieties that can withstand low temperatures, prolonged drought, and also grow in soil poor in organic matter and minerals.
Among the most popular varieties of pecan can be found: stewart, greenriver, indiana, textan, major, success. The presence of nutrients depends on the type of nut and where the tree grows.
All of them have a different composition, but each is useful in its own way, since minerals, vitamins and trace elements can be contained to a greater extent.
Video “Description”
From the video you will learn many interesting facts about the type of pecan.
Planting and reproduction
Pecan nuts are propagated in several ways: grafting, seedlings, budding and seeds.
Seeds are usually harvested after the nut is fully ripe - in the fall. After that, they are sown in prepared soil or stratified several months before spring sowing. First, beds with deep furrows are prepared. It is important that the seeds are immersed in the soil by at least 7 centimeters. On average, one and a half or two dozen seeds are sown per meter of beds. 
When they are already in the ground, it will need to fill up the planting material, and then moisten the soil. It is necessary to pour a little water so that it soaks the ground, but does not stagnate on the surface. So that it evaporates more slowly, soil mulching can be used.
As a result, the emergence of seedlings can be observed in a month.
At first, the pecan grows quite slowly. During the year, the stem of the plant can grow up to 30 centimeters. By the age of three, growth will be about 60 centimeters. Strong good seedlings in the first year can already be transplanted to a permanent place where they will take root. Gardeners leave weaker plants for another 1-2 years until they get stronger.
When the seedlings are preparing for planting, the root system should be stably moistened, and if necessary, they can be fed with fertilizers.
You can grow pecans in a greenhouse, greenhouse, and even on a balcony, if the owners are willing to allocate time for this. To transplant a grown seedling, they usually take a large spacious container. A wooden box will do.
Be sure to take into account what features of cultivation must be observed for individual varieties of nuts. For example, hazel needs a long period of complete rest, and at the same time, from November until the beginning of spring, the plant should be kept at a temperature of about 10-12 degrees. At this time, the frequency of watering decreases.
It is possible to grow pecans from seedlings, but owners should be aware that this method has its own difficulties. The main problem is that the finished seedlings have a very sensitive root system. Even with the slightest damage that can be overlooked, the plant can die. Therefore, when transporting pecan seedlings, you need to be extremely careful. The root system of the hazel variety has lateral and central roots (mixed system). Before planting a seedling in the soil, you need to dig a deep and wide hole so as not to break the processes. It is desirable that the land be fertile and soft. If there is an admixture of clay in it, then you can first add a little sand to create drainage. Thus, water after watering will not stagnate.
After planting the nut in the ground, you will need to install an even support nearby, to which the seedling is tied. Then the earth is watered and covered with a small layer of mulch.
If there is no good fertile land on the site, then before planting it must be prepared independently or purchased at a specialized store.
Good soil increases seed germination and also allows seedlings to grow better. In the future (in a few years) this will no longer be critical, as the plant will take root and take root.
Care
The pecan nut does not require special care measures, since the plant itself is unpretentious. Of course, if you provide favorable conditions for its growth, you can significantly improve the yield, as well as prevent the appearance of diseases or pests.
Gardeners will need to periodically break through the weed that will grow in the area near the nut. As the plants get stronger and begin to stretch upwards, holes will need to be made to better control the amount of water that goes into irrigation. You will also need to periodically loosen the earth when it is nailed down by rain or trampled down. 
Pecan care, in addition to watering and fertilizing, should also include caring for its crown. With the onset of spring, it is necessary to carry out sanitary and formative pruning, removing dry damaged branches. With proper care, a self-grown nut from seeds begins to bear fruit no earlier than ten years later.
You can achieve earlier fruiting, at the age of four or five years, if you grow a nut using a scion or budding. But these methods of reproduction require special knowledge and skills, therefore, most often, gardeners use either the seed method of reproduction or acquire ready-made adult seedlings at the age of 3-5 years.
Diseases and pests
Pecan nuts are difficult to split without additional tools. Its shell does not have a single slit, not a single hole (like, for example, walnut). This is both a plus - various insects cannot penetrate inside, and it is also a minus - it is difficult to split and remove the core due to the dense shell. 
The plant is practically not susceptible to diseases compared to walnuts. In wet weather and shade, mold can appear on the trunk, which can lead to rotting of the tree. You can fight pathogenic fungi with the help of chemicals or some folk remedies - a solution of ammonia, baking soda or vinegar.
Fertilizer and top dressing
As with any other type of walnut, soil fertilization and plant nutrition can be carried out using organic additives and special preparations.
Fertilizers must be applied carefully. It is important to consult with experienced gardeners regarding the dosage of various substances for each type of nut. When using drugs, carefully study the instructions for use. 
Nitrogen fertilizers are applied in small portions, preferably not during the fruiting period, especially if the nut is young. Nitrogen fertilizers can then cause bacteriosis. But phosphorus-potassium fertilizers are great for top dressing, as they favorably affect the fruiting of the tree.
Fertilizers applied cannot be left on the soil surface, they must be completely buried in the ground when digging or loosening.
Video “Stratification”
From the video you will learn how to properly stratify.
Not only are pecans an excellent substitute for animal protein, they are also loaded with beneficial nutrients, including antioxidants. And unsaturated fatty acids (mono- and poly-) make this exotic nut an ideal food for cores.
Pecans are native to the central and eastern regions of North America, as well as the valleys of Mexican rivers. Since ancient times, they have been actively collected and eaten by the Indians.
Inside it is similar to a walnut, but it has a smoother elongated shell and a more delicate, mild taste without bitterness. The set of nutrients also differs. This North American nut is special and unique.
Pecans are a real pantry of energy. There are 690 calories hidden in 100 g! In addition, these delicate, creamy and buttery nuts are rich in vitamins, minerals and natural antioxidants.
The mineral profile of the product includes: selenium and zinc, magnesium and iron, calcium and potassium, and manganese. Among vitamins, vitamin E and B-complex vitamins should be recognized as favorites.
One handful of pecans (28 g) contains 2% of the daily value of fat-soluble vitamin E, which has proven itself in combating the negative effects of polluted environment and solar radiation. It also reduces the risk of viral and other infections.
Returning to the B vitamins, it should be noted:
- vitamin B1, or thiamine (12% in one handful): participates in the breakdown of carbohydrates and proteins, is necessary for the nutrition of nervous and muscle tissue;
- vitamin B2, or riboflavin (2%): involved in the metabolism of carbohydrates, proteins and fats, in cell division, helps in tissue regeneration and growth;
- vitamin B3, or niacin (2%): involved in the synthesis of fats, plays an important role in the functioning of the nervous system;
- folic acid (2%): contributes to the formation of red blood cells and other types of cells, plays an important role in the formation of DNA;
- vitamin B5, or pantothenic acid (2%): involved in the energy metabolism of carbohydrates, fats and proteins;
- vitamin B6, or pyridoxine (3%): required for the formation of red blood cells, lipid synthesis for the immune and nervous systems, is a coenzyme in the complex process of formation of neurotransmitters.
A diet rich in all of these vitamins can give you a lot of vitality, smooth strong nails, radiant skin, protect against muscle spasms and cramps, increase tissue elasticity, improve hair condition and lower blood sugar levels. I think it's an excellent perspective.
Pecans also contain a modest amount of ascorbic acid (water-soluble vitamin C, which is needed for collagen synthesis and antioxidant protection) and 1% of the daily value of fat-soluble vitamin K (regulates blood clotting and helps in saturating bones with calcium).
Speaking of antioxidants. Let's take a look at them in pecans: zeaxanthin, lutein, beta-carotene, and ellagic acid. They protect us from harmful free radicals and their damaging effects at the cellular level. These wonderful substances give a supply of vivacity and energy, protect youth, protect against heart disease and cancer.
Beneficial features
More "good" cholesterol
This incomparable nut is rich in monounsaturated fats, such as oleic acid, which helps in increasing the level of so-called "good" cholesterol and lowering the level of "bad". The fatty acids found in pecans are beneficial for their antioxidant properties. They protect the human body from cancer, coronary disease and reduce the risk of getting a heart attack.
Gerontology
One of the key purposes bestowed on antioxidants by nature itself is the fight against aging. For centuries, gerontologists have been looking for a cure for this natural process. The dream of eternal youth is too tempting to just give it up. But so far, the antioxidants that are so rich in pecans remain the most effective. Don't miss the opportunity!
For vision
The carotene found in pecans is good for vision. Prevents eye diseases associated with aging, excessive visual stress and stress.
Optometrists recommend that everyone who has vision problems include as many carotene-rich foods as possible in their diet. In addition to carrots and cod liver, carotene can be found in dairy products, eggs, green and yellow vegetables.
We clean the blood with nuts
"Nutty" carotene helps in the purification of poisons, which are full in the bloodstream of every civilized person. Environmentally unfavorable environment and unhealthy foods only exacerbate the situation. Along with antitoxic properties, carotene prevents atherosclerosis by preventing the deposition of fatty oxidation products on the walls of blood vessels.
Anti-cancer properties
Scientists believe that the antioxidants in pecans can play a role in the prevention of certain types of cancer. Nuts are especially effective against prostate cancer, duodenal cancer, breast cancer and lung cancer. This whole range of anti-cancer benefits of pecans is based on real medical research. In other words, he can be trusted.
Harm and contraindications
In large quantities, high-calorie pecans can harm your figure, especially since they satisfy hunger less intensively, unlike pistachios. Like many other nut crops, they can provoke an allergic reaction. Seek help at the first sign!
North America is an amazing continent. The third largest continent of the planet with an interesting history, geography, flora and fauna. The Statue of Liberty and the Grand Canyon, Niagara Falls and the Mississippi River, the heritage of the Mayans and the Aztecs, the mystical icon of Our Lady of Guadalupe, huge cacti and redwoods, magnolias and tulip trees - all this is about North America. And it is also the birthplace of a very tasty and nutritious pecan nut, the chemical composition, properties, benefits and applications of which this publication is devoted to.
Pecan nut: what is it, where does it grow, varieties
The Indians - the indigenous inhabitants of America - for a very long time, even before the discovery of the continent by Columbus, ate pecans for food. In times of unsuccessful hunting, these nuts helped them survive - they were eaten, and also exchanged for food and necessary things from other tribes. Children, old and sick people were soldered with pecans ground with water to strengthen their strength and treatment, in particular, they used it if the nursing mother did not have enough milk.
Wandering through the lands of America, the Indians again and again planted walnut trees around their camps. This contributed not only to the spread of the plant across the mainland, but also to its selection, since the best nuts were selected for the next planting - even and with a thin shell.
The fruits ripen on the trees Kariya pecan, or K. Illinois (Carya illinoinensis), which grow in the south and east of the United States (Texas, Iowa, Mississippi and other states), Mexico, Australia. The plant species belongs to the genus Hickory of the Walnut family. In Canada, cultivars are bred tolerant to colder temperatures. The common pecan is also grown in Central Asia.
The southern regions are best suited for breeding. The trees are demanding on heat and humidity, they need enough light, but they also do not tolerate stagnant water and overgrowing of the soil with weeds. The first 3-4 years, the growth of hazel is slow and the plant reaches only 50 cm. At first, the harvest does not exceed 6 kg, adults give 15-30 kg of nuts per year, and up to 200 kg can be harvested from old ones.
In Russia, the pecan tree grows well in the Caucasus and Kazakhstan, but it is rarely found in the Crimea. The problem of breeding in our latitudes was due to the fact that due to the short summer and long growing season, the crop did not have time to ripen. But the breeders did not waste time. Northern pecan nuts (Pecan North) can ripen in a climate zone with sub-zero temperatures down to -30°. And on its basis, early-growing varieties were bred - Dirstand, Snaps and others.
In the video, Yuri Krutikov from the Milyonki family estate talks about frost-resistant varieties of walnut. You can also buy pecan seedlings from him.
The closest relative of the pecan is the hickory nut (they belong to the same genus and family). These two subspecies are easily pollinated with each other, and the result of crossing was the Hickan Barton variety. It ripens earlier than a pecan, while having a thinner, easily split shell, like a hickory.
This is interesting: in the history of pecan breeding, a funny case has been preserved when the American breeder Luther Burbank “overdid it” and created a variety with such a thin shell that birds pierced it, eating the entire crop.
How does hazel grow? The tree is deciduous, tall (can reach 40-60 m), with a spreading wide crown, bears fruit up to 300 years. It is also called chocolate pecan. The fruits are elongated, after ripening they crack, and inside there is a nut-bone about 2-3 cm long, brown. Hidden under its slightly ribbed shell is a dark beige edible core.
What does it taste like and what does it look like, comparison with a walnut
Outwardly, there is a similarity between the fruits of pecans and olives, so the former are also called olive nuts. And the kernels of these fruits resemble walnuts, but they are less ribbed and more elongated. The taste is also similar, but in pecan it is more delicate, soft and buttery, with a sweetish chocolate-creamy undertone. This is one of the most delicious nuts along with Brazil and macadamia.
By the way: the pecan kernel weighs more due to the thin shell and the absence of partitions, despite the fact that unpeeled fruits have approximately the same weight as a large walnut.
Other differences between pecans and walnuts:
- contains more sugar
- slightly higher in calories
- not bitter, no tart taste;
- there are no internal partitions, so it is easier to remove it from the shell;
- not attacked by nut codling moths (there are no wormy fruits);
- it costs about 2 times more (pecan is one of the most expensive nuts);
- more demanding on growing conditions.
Which is healthier, pecans or walnuts? In terms of calories, pecans are one step higher. According to the chemical composition, it is impossible to unambiguously say which of the nuts is better:
- Pecans have 2 times more vitamins E and A, fats, there is fluorine, but less protein, folates and pyridoxine.
- Walnuts contain more potassium, calcium, magnesium and phosphorus, they have more polyunsaturated fatty acids and almost 4 times less monounsaturated fatty acids.
- Pecans have 1.5 times more dietary fiber and almost 15 times less starch.
Application
Pecans can be consumed raw, dried, or toasted. Expensive liquors insist on them, put in desserts. In cooking, crumbs from them are added to cottage cheese, pastries (cakes, muffins, cheesecakes, etc.), mushroom, meat, vegetable and fish dishes, salads, and pea soup.
Vegans can make nutritious milk from pecans, for which a handful of nuts are poured into a blender, topped up with 200 ml of water and whipped. By the way, you can do the same with almonds.
On a note! The most delicious nutritious and tonic drink is obtained by boiling ground coffee and pecans together, and then adding orange extract.
In America, pecan pie is popular, without which no holiday can do. Take note of his classic recipe presented in the video.
About Pecan Butter
Like any other nut, pecans are pressed for oil. To maximize the preservation of useful properties, this is done by cold pressing. Pecan oil smells of nuts and has a yellow-golden color, and tastes like olive oil.
It is useful for the cardiovascular system due to fatty acids, phytosterol, minerals and vitamins. They reduce the level of "bad" cholesterol and increase the content of "good", helping to prevent the development of atherosclerosis.
Pecan oil is added to sauces for fish and meat dishes, seasoned with salads, rice. It pairs well with balsamic vinegar. In small quantities (1-2 tsp each) they are taken orally to increase appetite and strengthen immunity, for colds, chronic fatigue and headaches.
The tool is used not only for food purposes:
- With pecan oil, they do massage, face, hair and body masks, strengthen nails.
- Cosmetic products containing it are usually intended for dry and aging skin.
- With it, you can quickly cure a wound or subcutaneous hematoma, soothe irritation.
- The product, like coconut oil, protects the skin from the damaging effects of ultraviolet radiation and softens it after sunburn.
To slow down aging and smooth fine wrinkles, add 1 tsp of pecan oil to a dessert spoon. natural aloe juice (from your plant or purchased without preservatives and other additives) and essential oils - rosewood, jasmine and ylang-ylang (1 drop each).
Pour the mixture into the palm of your hand and lightly massage your face, neck and décolleté for 5 minutes using stroking and light patting movements. Then pat your skin dry with a soft, dry cloth. Repeat this beauty routine 1-2 times a week.
Calories, chemical composition
The calorie content of the pecan makes it a very nutritious food. 100 g of raw nuts contains:
- 691 kcal (this is a third of the average daily allowance);
- 9.17 g protein;
- 13.9 g of carbohydrates;
- 72 g fat;
- 9.6 g of dietary fiber;
- 3.52 g of water.
Of the saturated fatty acids in pecans, there are palmitic (4.37 g), stearic (1.75 g) and very little arachidonic acid. From monounsaturated - oleic (40 g), gadoleic (little), and from polyunsaturated - linoleic (20.63 g) and linolenic (0.99 g).
The protein composition is represented by amino acids, of which the most are arginine, aspartic and glutamic acids, phenylalanine with tyrosine, glycine and serine. There is little starch, glucose and fructose - the carbohydrate part consists mainly of dietary fiber and sucrose.
The chemical composition of the pecan nut is rich in vitamins, among which E (tocopherol) predominates. Also contains vitamins A and C, K, B-complex (B1, B2, B5, B6, folates, choline, niacin). Pecan boasts a set of macro- and microelements. For example, the amount of manganese and copper in 100 g of nuts exceeds the daily requirement for these elements, and phosphorus, magnesium and zinc - a third of it. It also contains potassium, calcium, iron, selenium.
Pecans are cholesterol-free and contain phytosterols (34% DV). You can familiarize yourself with the detailed composition of nuts in the form of diagrams and tables.
Pecan nut: benefits and harms to the body
Due to their composition, pecans bring many benefits to the body, but of course, with their moderate use.
Heart and blood vessels
Unsaturated acids and phytosterols contribute to the formation of "good" cholesterol and reduce the content of "bad". This directly affects the condition of the vessels, reducing the risk of atherosclerotic plaques. After all, it is “bad” cholesterol that tends to settle on the walls of blood vessels, narrowing the lumen over time and leading to atherosclerosis.
Rejuvenation and prevention of oncology
The antioxidant properties of beta-carotene, vitamin E and unsaturated fatty acids allow slowing down cell aging. As a result of oxidative processes in the body, free radicals are formed, which not only disrupt the normal functioning of cells, but also take part in the mechanisms of the development of malignant tumors. Antioxidants destroy them, thereby slowing down the aging process and reducing the risk of cancer.
Blood Purification
The beta-carotene and lutein in nuts helps to remove toxins and other foreign substances from the blood. And another useful property is that it increases the production of leukocytes and lymphocytes (within the normal range), whose work is aimed at absorbing and neutralizing infectious agents and foreign particles.
weight loss
Linoleic acid, which is part of pecan and its oil, improves metabolism, stimulates the breakdown of fats and reduces the rate of their absorption, and hence deposits "in reserve". But the absorption of proteins, on the contrary, accelerates. This property helps not only not to acquire extra pounds, but also to gain muscle mass faster, if necessary. Many of those who are fond of bodybuilding take linoleic acid to speed up fat burning.
It is useful to replace pecans in reasonable quantities with more high-calorie sweets - chocolate, sweets, cakes. Drink tea without sugar (green, mate, matcha, oolong, etc.) with dried fruits and nuts, and you will notice that your energy will increase, and the extra centimeters will gradually begin to decrease.
Strengthening bones
Due to the high content of phosphorus and calcium, pecan helps to renew bone tissue and strengthen teeth. Moderate but regular consumption of these nuts prevents pain and muscle cramps.
Other properties
We list what else pecans are useful for:
- restores strength in overwork, weakness of the body after illness;
- reduces the likelihood of beriberi;
- favorably affects vision, as it contains beta-carotene;
- enhances libido;
- reduces the risk of developing varicose veins;
- increases appetite;
- normalizes blood pressure.
Helpful advice! If your child is over 3 years old and has a poor appetite, give him or her a couple of pecans. In addition, it will be an excellent nutritional, vitamin and energy boost for your fidget.
Possible harm
Contraindications to the use of pecans:
- severe liver pathology;
- pregnancy (due to a potential allergic reaction of the baby);
- children's age up to 3 years;
- obesity;
- individual intolerance to the product.
With dermatitis and other skin diseases, pathologies of the gastrointestinal tract and constipation, the use of nuts should be minimized.
Any product can bring both benefit and harm, it all depends on the quantity. If you eat pecans often and a lot, then you may encounter weight gain, especially if you eat it along with meat or dairy products. Overeating is also harmful because nut butter can cause nausea and discomfort in the stomach and intestines.
Benefits for men
The first property of pecans for men is its high energy and nutritional value. For example, 400 g of product completely covers the daily requirement for calories and many nutritional compounds and nutrients for an adult with a strong physique. Of course, you won’t be able to eat such a quantity of nuts, and you don’t need to, because in total with other food, even 50 g of pecans is a very valuable addition to the diet. Especially if you have to do hard physical labor.
Another useful properties of pecans are due to the content of gamma-tocopherol in it. Scientists have discovered the antitumor properties of this substance. In particular, this was confirmed by clinical studies conducted during the treatment of prostate cancer.
Benefits of Pecan for Women
What is useful pecan for the fairer sex? First of all, this is the action of linoleic acid, which helps to normalize the production of hormones, as well as reduce the inflammatory processes in the body. Therefore, pecan oil or nuts are also useful for chronic inflammation of the female genital area and other organs.
Eating pecans is good for beauty, as vitamins, trace elements and fatty acids strengthen hair, nails, nourish dry, tired and aging skin. Nuts restore strength faster when tired, and also reduce the risk of breast cancer, etc.
What are the other benefits of nuts for women? The fact that they strengthen bone tissue, which is especially important in the postmenopausal period. Changes in the hormonal background after 45-50 years leads to the fact that the bones become brittle. Phosphorus and calcium reduce the risk of osteoporosis.
How to choose and store
It is best to buy pecans unpeeled, especially if you are stocking up for a long time. Such nuts will never be rancid or wormy. If it is decided to purchase kernels without a shell, then choose only whole, not broken ones, and the smell should be pure nutty without a hint of bitterness.
Ideally, keep nuts in the refrigerator or even in the freezer. In the first case, peeled pecans can be stored for 2-3 months, and whole ones for up to six months. In the freezer, a nut without a shell will lie without loss of taste and nutritional properties for about 9 months, and in a shell - up to two years.