A surprising fruit could be the key to preserving our cognitive health. Dutch researchers have discovered that daily consumption of nuts would significantly improve memory performance. This revelation opens new perspectives in the fight against age-related cognitive decline. But how can a simple nut have such an impact on our brain?
Brain aging is a major concern in our aging societies. A recent study, published in the journal Clinical Nutritionbrings new hope in this area. She suggests that a common food, nutcould play a crucial role in maintaining our cognitive faculties. This discovery, dating from June 2023, is worth paying attention to, as it could have significant implications for our long-term health.
Walnuts: an unexpected ally for our brain
Dutch researchers conducted a study on 28 people with an average age of 65, in good health. The objective was to evaluate the impact of regular nut consumption on their cognitive functions. The results are surprising:
- the group consuming 60 grams of mixed nuts per day for 16 weeks showed a 16% improvement in verbal memory;
- participants eating nuts also experienced better flexibility and elasticity arteries;
- an improvement in blood circulation in the small vessels of the eyes was observed.
These findings suggest that nuts may have a beneficial effect on cerebral blood circulation, thereby helping to improve memory performance. In addition, their consumption seems to have positive effects on cardiovascular health in general.
The antioxidant power of nuts
Dani Felber, a dietitian specializing in brain health, explains: “ Our brains are particularly susceptible to oxidative stress, which damages brain cells over time, leading to a decline in memory and cognitive function. “. Nuts, especially walnuts, are rich in antioxidants, essential for combating this oxidative stress.
Hope for the prevention of Alzheimer’s disease?
Alzheimer’s disease is at the heart of concerns related to brain aging. A study published in 2014 in the Journal of Alzheimer‘s Disease had already put in place light the potential benefits of nuts:
- a handful of nuts per day could reduce the risk of developing the disease;
- in people already affected, consuming nuts could slow the progression of the disease.
These results, although promising, require larger-scale studies to be fully validated. Nevertheless, they are part of a broader trend emphasizing the importance of diet in preventing cognitive decline.
Towards a targeted diet for brain health
The Dutch study is part of a broader body of research on the impact of diet on cognitive health. Diets like the Mediterranean diet or the DASH diet have previously been linked to slowing cognitive decline and reducing the risk of dementia.
It is essential to note that nut consumption did not show significant improvement in all cognitive domains. For example, the ability to make decisions, the level of stress experienced and general quality of life were not significantly impacted.
These results pave the way for more in-depth research on the specific role of different nutrients present in walnuts and other tree nuts in brain health. A targeted nutritional approach could thus become a valuable tool in the prevention and management of age-related cognitive decline.
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