Everyone’s favorite pie add-in contains health benefits that can change your lifestyle. When your sweet tooth begins to bother you, instead of going straight for the ice cream or pie, begin a routine of reaching for what’s inside: pecans.

While pecans have the highest fat content of any nut, it’s the kind of fat that you want.

Pecans are loaded with monounsaturated fats that in time help to lower your cholesterol. Containing oleic acid, pecans are said to improve your immune system and reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease.

Indulging nuts boost your metabolism and in turn may help you lose weight. Although pecans may not be the absolute reason of your weight loss, it’s one method of giving in to your sweet tooth instead of going toward sweets.

Although pecans are rich in antioxidants, they also include the overlooked nutrient known as minerals. These minerals are essential to your bodily health and will benefit your metabolism and development.

Madilyn Hope, fanatic of pecan pie and ice cream, was overjoyed when she heard about the real health benefits of pecans.

“I had no idea pecans were actually good for you,” Hope said. “I don’t feel as bad for eating pecan ice cream and pie anymore because I know the benefits pecans hold.”

Just like Madilyn, I was not fully aware of all the benefits that pecans hold, but it is nice to know that there’s a way I can get a taste of some of my favorite sweets while also being healthy.

Even though ice cream and pie aren’t the best boost of health, pecans will help your overall health if you eat them correctly. Doused in ice cream, pecans won’t be the healthiest option for you to consume, but there are other ways pecans can help your health.

Pecans are a sweet nut that contain many perks while also being a rich and sweet flavor for your taste buds. Full of antioxidants and health benefits, pecans can be the new craving you desire instead of going after unhealthy sweets.