Many people have heard about how walnuts look just like a brain and therefore are good for the brain. Some dismiss this as fanciful imagination - but it is actually true! Numerous scientific studies have confirmed that walnuts really are one of the best foods to promote brain health and protect against neurological degeneration, especially connected with ageing.
There are several compounds in walnuts which contribute to brain health:
Anti-oxidants: There are many types of anti-oxidants (which refer to the effect a compound has, rather than describing the compound itself). Walnuts are rich in polyphenols, flavenoids and vitamin E, which reduce oxidative damage in the brain and may help protect memory and delay cognitive ageing.
Alpha-linolenic acid: Alpha-linolenic acid (ALA) is an omega-3 fatty acid that they body cannot make for itself, so we have to consume it in our food. Studies have shown that ALA may reduce brain inflammation and support overall cognitive function.
B Vitamins and Magnesium: These nutrients are key to neurotransmitter production and nerve function.
Multiple scientific studies have found links between regular walnut consumption and improved cognitive function, especially in older people. The improvements are in memory, concentration and processing speed, as well as showing better cognitive test scores and slower brain ageing.
Studies on animals have further found that enriching diets with walnuts led to improved memory and motor skills as well as reducing oxidative stress in brain tissue.
It has even been found that walnuts may lower the risk of Alzheimers disease, thank to their anti-inflammatory properties.
So, in a nutshell, eat walnuts! They do indeed support brain health in multiple ways.