The Pecan
Flex Appeal: The Latissimus Dorsi Takes Center Stage!
July 28, 2025
The Pecan
Pecans are a rich, slightly sweet nut, which grows on a towering tree that produces clusters of green husks. Within each husk lies a hard, oval surprise with a deep, nutty taste. They originated from central and eastern North American regions, and the name is a Native American word that was used to describe “all nuts requiring a stone to crack.” This location helped make pecans one of the most valuable North American nuts. Dr. Aaron Workman, a team member of one of the highest rated car accident medical care providers in Kentucky, talks about some of the health benefits of the pecan and how they stand out as a nut.
- Heart-Protective Fats
Starting in 2012, specific types of pecans, unsalted and unroasted, have enjoyed the designation of “Heart-Healthy” by the American Heart Association’s Heart-Check Certification Program. They are packed with monounsaturated fats that support heart health by lowering bad cholesterol (LDL). These healthy fats promote better blood flow, making a handful a great way to nourish your heart with a nutritional boost. - Weight and Blood Sugar
A study from Tufts University, in 2017, showed a diet full of pecans improves cardio metabolic risk in overweight and obese adults, when incorporated into the average American diet. This significantly improves blood glucose and insulin levels. They help maintain these levels by slowing sugar absorption, through low carbs and high fiber, providing more consistent energy throughout the day. - Bone Strength Support
A serving of pecans can add 10% of your bodies recommended daily intake of magnesium, which is needed for proper absorption of calcium. Rich in both magnesium and phosphorus, this can aid in the risk reduction of osteoporosis over time. They also provide around 10% of the daily allowance of zinc which can help maintain bone density, supporting your skeletal health with every bite. - Antioxidant Defense
Research from the 2004, Journal of Agriculture and Food Chemistry, found that pecans rank highest among all nuts and are among the top category of foods to contain the highest antioxidant capacity. They contain antioxidants like vitamin E and polyphenols, which fight oxidative stresses. - Brain Health Boost
A recent study in February 2025, Nutritional Neuroscience, concluded that after drinking a pecan-enriched shake, participants performed better on 8 out of 23 cognitive tests. Pecans are loaded with healthy fats and vitamins B1-3, B5, B6 and B9 all of which work to support brain function and memory. Their nutrients may enhance focus, making them a delicious choice to keep a sharp mind.
Including pecans in your diet is another great way to enjoy a snack while taking advantage of its numerous health benefits. From their magnesium content to their heart-healthy fats and brain-boosting B vitamins, pecans are truly a nutritional powerhouse. They stand as the only nut on the USDA’s list of top 20 foods with the highest dietary antioxidants. Go ahead and enjoy a handful of pecans today and feel confident you are treating your body to a load of nutrients it needs to thrive.
— This article is written by Aaron Workman, DC, one of the members of Chambers Medical Group’s team of car accident chiropractors who offer a variety of treatments and therapies ranging from diagnostic testing to various soft tissue therapies for car accidents and injuries in Kentucky.
