Adapted by:
Pablo Martínez-Juarez
WriterEnvironmental economist and science journalist. For a few years, I worked as a researcher on the economics of climate change adaptation. Now I write about that and much more.
Alba Mora
WriterAn established tech journalist, I entered the world of consumer tech by chance in 2018. In my writing and translating career, I've also covered a diverse range of topics, including entertainment, travel, science, and the economy.
Walnuts are a nutritious food that's especially beneficial for our brain. Research continues to provide new insights into their value.
Brain food. A recent study published in Food & Function found that consuming walnuts at breakfast improved brain function in young people. Thanks to this study, researchers have a better understanding of the connection between walnuts and cognitive performance.
“This study helps strengthen the case for walnuts as brain food. A handful of walnuts with breakfast could give young adults a mental edge when they need to perform at the top of their game. It’s particularly exciting that such a simple dietary addition could make a measurable difference to cognitive performance,” said co-author Claire Williams in a press release.
Delayed effects. The team observed that when participants consumed breakfast that included walnuts, they achieved faster reaction times throughout the day. There was also a memory boost. Notably, this increase wasn’t noticeable in the first few hours after breakfast. Instead, it became apparent later in the day.
Analysis. Through EEG measures, the team detected changes in neural activity, suggesting that walnuts may be particularly effective in enhancing cognitive performance during challenging mental tasks. Blood tests indicated changes in glucose and fatty acid levels, which could contribute to improved performance.
Understanding the nutrients and biochemical mechanisms that connect walnuts to brain health is essential for establishing a causal relationship. The research team suggests that several nutrients, including omega-3 fatty acids, proteins, and polyphenols, contribute to a cognitive boost.
Limitations. The study has some limitations due to its small sample size, which makes it difficult to generalize the results. However, it contributes to the growing body of evidence suggesting that nuts, including walnuts, can improve cognitive performance.
According to the research team, the recent study complements existing literature by focusing on the short-term effects of walnut consumption, specifically on the same day they’re eaten. Researchers also emphasized the need for further studies to clarify the relationship between walnut consumption and improvements in cognitive performance.
Image | Engin Akyurt
Related | Drinking Too Much Alcohol Affects Your Brain. The Effects Aren’t Far From Those of a Brain Injury
View 0 comments