Over 9 million Indians are currently living with Alzheimer’s disease. As our population ages rapidly in the coming decades, this number is expected to triple. Alzheimer’s is an emotionally and economically devastating illness for patients and caregivers alike. That’s why discovering ways to prevent Alzheimer’s through lifestyle changes has become a top public health priority.
Can Nuts Help Shield Our Brains?
Nuts like almonds, hazelnuts, and walnuts boast high amounts of healthy fats, vitamin E, antioxidants, and anti-inflammatory phytochemicals. A new review in the Journal of Pharmacological Research details the potential Alzheimer ‘s-fighting superpowers of these three nuts.
Experience
The authors evaluated cellular and animal studies showing brain benefits from eating these three nuts or their unique brain-healthy nutrients. For example, studies show almonds improve cognition in mice vulnerable to Alzheimer’s.
Expertise
The researchers specialize in natural compound research and nutraceutical medicine. They have extensive expertise in studying how plant nutrients impact neurological health.
Authoritative
This study was published in the well-respected, peer-reviewed Journal of Pharmacological Research. The journal has a thorough editorial and expert reviewer process to evaluate each paper’s scientific merit.
Trustworthy
There were no conflicts of interest. The authors received no food industry funding. This suggests their analysis represents an unbiased look at the neurological benefits of almonds, hazelnuts, and walnuts.
Almond, Hazelnuts & Walnuts – What Makes Them “Neuro-Nutritious”?
The researchers identified certain compounds and nutrients most likely responsible for the apparent brain-boosting effects of these tasty tree nuts.
Vitamin E
All three nuts are packed with vitamin E. Often called “the brain vitamin”, vitamin E improves brain cell signaling and is linked to better cognition and mood in older adults.
Anti-Inflammatory Effects
Brain inflammation is increasingly tied to Alzheimer’s development. The monounsaturated fats, vitamin E, and polyphenols in almonds, hazelnuts, and walnuts reduce inflammatory factors implicated in Alzheimer’s like cytokines and oxidative stress.
Improved Blood Vessel Function
Many Alzheimer’s risk factors like high blood pressure and diabetes damage blood vessels in the brain. Compounds in all three nuts boost nitric oxide, relaxing blood vessels and enhancing blood flow. Better brain circulation is vital for delivering oxygen and nutrients to power our precious neurons.
While more research is still needed, incorporating almonds, hazelnuts, and walnuts into a brain-healthy diet could help stave off Alzheimer’s symptoms. Their unique protective nutrient profile shows particular promise for shielding the aging brain. So go ahead – go a little nuts! Just a small daily handful could pay “big brain” dividends now and protect your cognitive future.
