Eating about a handful of pecans each day may play a role in protecting the nervous system, according to a new study in mice.

The report suggests that pecans may delay the progression of age-related motor neuron degeneration. This may include diseases like amyotropic lateral sclerosis (ALS), also known as Lou Gehrig’s Disease.

Researchers suggest the antioxidant vitamin E — which is abundant in pecans — may provide a key element to neurological protection.

“These findings suggest regular consumption of pecans may provide significant nutritive and antioxidant benefits for your body,” notes lead researcher Thomas B. Shea, PhD.

Dr. Shea and his research team carried out a number of laboratory studies on three groups of mice specifically bred to demonstrate severe decline in motor neuron function. Each of the three groups was fed a control diet or one of two diets containing differing amounts of pecans ground into their food. Standard testing methods were used to determine how well the mice scored relative to motor neuron functions, both before and after they were provided with one of the three diets. Mice provided a diet supplemented with pecans displayed a significant delay in decline in motor function compared to mice receiving no pecans. Mice eating the diet with the most pecans fared best.

Current Topics in Nutraceutical Research – June 2010;Epub.
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