A simple, affordable snack could be a powerful tool for protecting your brain as you age, according to compelling new research. A study from the Netherlands has found that eating a daily handful of peanuts significantly boosts blood flow to key brain regions and improves memory function in older adults.
The Four-Month Peanut Experiment
Scientists at Maastricht University Medical Centre conducted a controlled study involving healthy individuals aged between 60 and 75. The participants were recruited via an advertisement and asked to consume approximately 60 unsalted, skin-roasted peanuts every day for four months.
Throughout the trial, researchers meticulously tracked the volunteers' blood pressure and body weight at the start, midpoint, and conclusion of the research period. The focus was on measuring changes in cerebral blood flow, a critical marker for brain health that delivers essential oxygen and nutrients.
Significant Improvements in Brain Function
The results, published recently, were striking. The team, led by Dr. Peter Joris, an associate professor in the Department of Nutrition and Movement Sciences, reported a 3.6% increase in global cerebral blood flow. This refers to the overall volume of blood circulating through the brain.
Even more impressive was the associated cognitive benefit: participants demonstrated a 5.8% improvement in their memory, specifically their ability to recall spoken or written information. This enhancement is linked to increased blood flow to the frontal and temporal lobes, areas vital for memory processing.
Beyond Memory: A Holistic Health Boost
The advantages of the peanut regimen extended beyond cognitive gains. The study of 31 healthy older adults also noted a beneficial reduction in blood pressure among participants. This dual effect on cardiovascular and cerebrovascular health is particularly significant.
Dr. Joris emphasised the importance of the findings for long-term brain health. "To illustrate the relevance of this finding, global cerebral blood flow decreases with 0.37% per year as we age," he stated. The study suggests that a simple dietary intervention could not only halt this decline but reverse it, potentially reducing the risk of dementia, which is often exacerbated by deteriorating blood vessel function in the brain.
Why Skin-Roasted Peanuts Are Key
The researchers specifically chose skin-roasted peanuts for the experiment due to their superior nutritional profile. "The peanut skin contains additional dietary fibre and natural plant compounds, specifically antioxidants," explained Dr. Joris. He believes that this combination of nutrients is likely responsible for the observed health benefits.
This research builds on earlier work by the same group. In 2021, they found soy nuts improved brain circulation over 16 weeks, and in 2023, mixed nuts yielded similar results. However, the latest peanut study is the first from the team to show a measurable increase in global cerebral blood flow, not just regional changes.
The findings offer a compelling, accessible strategy for supporting brain health through diet. Incorporating a daily serving of skin-roasted, unsalted peanuts could be a tasty and effective way to nourish the mind and safeguard memory in later life.
