You think of them for pie. You adore them in pralines. But did you know pecans are actually extremely nutrient dense?

So don't be fooled by their rich, buttery texture and naturally sweet taste.

Pecans contain the same beneficial unsaturated fats that are found in other nuts, and nearly two decades of research suggests that nuts, including pecans, may help promote heart health.

In each 1-ounce serving of raw pecans you’ll get 12 grams of “good” monounsaturated fat, with zero cholesterol or sodium.

Compared to other nuts, pecans are among the lowest in carbs and highest in fiber.

The macronutrient profile of pecans is appealing to many people: protein (3 grams), carbohydrate (4 grams) and fat (20 grams).

A handful of pecans – about 19 halves – is a good source of fiber, thiamin and zinc, and an excellent source of copper and manganese.