If you're looking for a delicious and nutritious snack, 1/4 cup (28 g) of butter roasted pecans might be the perfect option. Not only do they taste great, but they also provide your body with important nutrients like protein, fiber, and healthy fats. And at 200 calories per serving, they make for a satisfying snack or addition to your favorite recipes.
Pecans are a good source of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. In just one serving of butter roasted pecans, you'll get 22% of your daily recommended intake of thiamine, 5% of your daily recommended intake of calcium, and 3% of your daily recommended intake of iron. They also contain healthy monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats, which can help lower your risk of heart disease and promote healthy brain function.
In this article, we'll explore the nutritional breakdown of butter roasted pecans, their potential benefits and side effects, and how to incorporate them into your diet.
The Calories in Butter Roasted Pecans
As mentioned earlier, a 1/4 cup (28 g) serving of butter roasted pecans contains 200 calories. While this might seem high for some people, it's important to note that not all calories are created equal. Pecans are a nutrient-dense food, meaning they provide a lot of nutrition for the number of calories they contain. In fact, researchers have found that people who eat nuts regularly tend to weigh less and have a lower risk of obesity than those who don't. This is because nuts are high in protein and fiber, which can help keep you feeling full and satisfied for longer periods of time.
Butter Roasted Pecans' Nutritional Breakdown
In addition to being a good source of healthy fats, pecans also contain a variety of other nutrients that your body needs to function properly. Here is a breakdown of the nutritional content of a 1/4 cup (28 g) serving of butter roasted pecans:
- calories: 200
- Fat: 21 g
- Protein: 3 g
- Carbohydrates: 4 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Sugar: 1 g
- Calcium: 2% of daily value
- Iron: 3% of daily value
- Thiamine: 22% of daily value
Fats in Butter Roasted Pecans
One of the biggest draws of pecans is their high content of healthy fats. As mentioned before, pecans contain both monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats, which are good for your heart and brain health. In fact, one study found that people who eat a diet high in monounsaturated fats (like those found in pecans) have a lower risk of heart disease than those who eat a diet high in saturated fats.
Carbohydrates in Butter Roasted Pecans
While pecans do contain some carbohydrates, they are mostly in the form of fiber. This means they won't cause a rapid spike in your blood sugar levels like foods high in refined carbohydrates (like white bread or soda) would. In fact, one study found that people who eat a diet high in fiber have a lower risk of developing heart disease, stroke, and type 2 diabetes than those who eat a low-fiber diet.
Proteins in Butter Roasted Pecans
While pecans are not a significant source of protein, they do contain some amino acids that are important for building and repairing muscles and tissues in your body. In addition, pairing pecans with other protein sources (like Greek yogurt or chicken) can help make a more complete and balanced meal.
Benefits of Butter Roasted Pecans
In addition to being a tasty snack, there are several potential benefits to incorporating butter roasted pecans into your diet. Here are just a few:
- Lower risk of heart disease
- Improved brain function
- Reduced inflammation
- Lowered cholesterol levels
- Reduced risk of certain types of cancer
Butter Roasted Pecans and Weight Loss
Despite their high calorie content, pecans may actually help with weight loss. This is because they are high in protein and fiber, which can help keep you feeling full and satisfied for longer periods of time. In addition, one study found that people who ate a diet high in nuts (like pecans) tended to have lower BMIs (body mass indexes) than those who ate a low-nut diet.
How to Incorporate Butter Roasted Pecans into Your Diet
Looking for ways to add more pecans to your diet? Here are a few ideas:
- Toss them into a salad for extra crunch and flavor
- Add them to your morning oatmeal or yogurt bowl
- Mix them into your favorite baked goods (like muffins or bread)
- Eat them as a standalone snack
Butter Roasted Pecans for Athletes
If you're an athlete, pecans might be a good addition to your diet. They contain a good mix of carbohydrates, healthy fats, and protein, which can help fuel your workouts and aid in muscle recovery. In addition, pecans contain important vitamins and minerals (like thiamine and iron) that are essential for energy production and oxygen transport in the body.
Side Effects of Butter Roasted Pecans
While butter roasted pecans are generally considered safe and healthy for most people, there are a few potential side effects to be aware of. For example:
- Allergic reactions: Some people may be allergic to pecans or other tree nuts, so it's important to be cautious if you have a known allergy.
- Weight gain: While pecans can be a healthy addition to your diet, it's important to keep portion sizes in mind. Eating too many pecans (or any other food) can lead to weight gain over time.
- High oxalate levels: Pecans are high in oxalates, which can contribute to kidney stone formation in some people. If you have a history of kidney stones, it's best to limit your intake of high-oxalate foods.
When it comes to snacking, pecans are my go-to. They're delicious, nutritious, and versatile enough to add to a variety of dishes.
Frequently Asked Questions about Butter Roasted Pecans
1. How many pecans are in a 1/4 cup serving?
The number of pecans in a 1/4 cup serving will depend on the size of the pecans. On average, a 1/4 cup serving contains about 15-20 pecans.
2. How are the pecans roasted?
The pecans are roasted with butter, which gives them a rich and savory flavor. They are typically roasted in an oven or on a stovetop until they are golden brown and fragrant.
3. Are there any health benefits to eating pecans?
Yes, pecans are a good source of healthy fats, fiber, and protein. They also contain several vitamins and minerals, including vitamin E, magnesium, and zinc.
4. How can I incorporate butter roasted pecans into my diet?
Butter roasted pecans are a delicious and versatile snack. They can be eaten on their own as a healthy snack, added to salads or yogurt as a crunchy topping, or used in baking recipes like cookies or pies.
5. Can I make butter roasted pecans at home?
Yes, butter roasted pecans can be made at home with just a few simple ingredients. All you need are pecans, butter, salt, and any additional spices or flavorings you prefer. There are many recipes available online to help you get started.