Pecans improve cholesterol and diet quality, study finds

A new study from Penn State shows that replacing regular snacks with pecans can improve cholesterol levels and overall diet quality. Participants who consumed two ounces of pecans daily had better cholesterol measurements compared to those who did not. The study involved 138 adults at risk for metabolic syndrome. Those snacking on pecans showed a 17% increase in diet quality and reductions in total cholesterol and LDL cholesterol after 12 weeks. Researchers noted that pecans contain polyphenols, which may support heart health. They suggest that increasing the intake of foods like pecans could benefit those at risk for cardiovascular diseases.