An occasional hand full of pecans is not only delicious and satisfying but researchers are finding that pecans may be as beneficial to your health as cooking with olive oil. Pecans are an excellent source of oleic acid, a fatty acid found in abundance in olive oil. Pecans, like other nuts, are high in fat but the fat is monounsaturated fat. Monounsaturated fats have a protective effect on the blood, lowering total blood cholesterol and preserving the HDLs that help combat heart disease. In addition, pecans and other tree nuts are believed to be helpful in fighting cancers. Loma Lindy University researchers have found that nuts are unique, special foods eaten widely in the Mediterranean where people have for centuries enjoyed longevity and one of the lowest rates of heart disease in the world.

Jean Carper, health and nutrition writer and author of "The Food Pharmacy" and "Food- Your Miracle Medicine," write " Nuts are one of the original foods of prehistoric man. Therefore, the body is attuned to nuts. It needs nuts." Carper also writes that fiber in pecans and other nuts mostly insoluble which has been linked to reduce cholesterol levels and show to be helpful in warding off colon cancer. Continuing, "Pecans contain high levels of zinc, believed to be beneficial in fighting heart disease; and selenium, found to be an antioxidant nutrient connected to reduction in the incidence of stomach cancer. Pecans also contain Vitamin E, an antioxidant vitamin, that may guard against heart disease, some cancer, Parkinsons disease and cataracts.

Moderate amounts of pecans be a good addition to a healthy diet. Pecans appear in the meat/protein section of the food pyramid guidelines established by the U. S. Department of Agriculture.

Pecans are a popular food item eaten in their natural form or as a component in other food dishes. The pecan, a distinctively delightful nut, is unsurpassed as a snack food and has always been a popular ingredient in holiday dishes. But pecans are "NOT JUST FOR THE HOLIDAYS". The thought of pecans will probably bring to mind memories of mothers pecan pie, but pecans are great addition to any meal and not only dessert. Promotional efforts by grower supported organizations have successfully introduced the pecan as a year round treat and definitely not just dessert. The pecan is delicious and versatile and will add a distinctive flavor to many of your favorite recipes.

***Information derived from the NC Pecan Growers Association, and The NC Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services***