The popular snack that boosted memory and brain function in a 16-week study

Peanuts are more than just a convenient snack for sports or travelthey may also enhance memory and cognitive function, according to recent research from the Netherlands. Researchers at Maastricht University Medical Center discovered that consuming approximately 60 unsalted, skin-roasted peanuts daily for four months improved blood flow to key areas of the brain and strengthened memory performance.

The study showed that participants experienced a 3.6% increase in blood flow to the frontal and temporal lobescollectively known as global cerebral blood flowand a 5.8% improvement in their ability to recall spoken or written information. Additionally, blood pressure in 31 healthy older adults decreased during the study period. These findings could be significant for those seeking to lower their risk of dementia, which is linked to aging and declining cerebral vascular health.

Cerebral blood flow is a critical marker of brain vascular function, delivering oxygen and nutrients essential for maintaining brain health, explained Dr. Peter Joris, associate professor at Maastricht Universitys Department of Nutrition and Movement Sciences. Our research shows that regular consumption of unsalted, skin-roasted peanuts enhances global cerebral blood flow, indicating improved overall brain vascular function.

The participants, aged 60 to 75, were carefully monitored throughout the study. They refrained from other nuts, alcohol, and exercise prior to test visits, and underwent fasting for 12 hours before each session. Cognitive performance was assessed using the Cambridge Neuropsychological Test Automated Battery, while brain scans using MRI tracked changes in blood flow.

Earlier studies by the team revealed that soy nuts and mixed nuts could also boost cerebral blood flow, but this study demonstrated increases in both global and gray matter blood flow of 3.6% and 4.5%, respectively. For context, cerebral blood flow naturally decreases by about 0.37% each year as people age.

Researchers attribute the benefits to the unique nutritional profile of peanuts. The amino acid l-arginine, unsaturated fats, fiber, antioxidants, and anti-inflammatory compounds may all contribute to improved blood circulation in the brain. The study also highlighted resveratrol, a compound in peanut skins, which may enhance blood flow in the prefrontal cortex.

We selected skin-roasted peanuts because their skins provide additional fiber and natural antioxidants, which likely contribute to the cognitive and vascular benefits observed in our study, said Joris.

Author: Sophia Brooks