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Popular snack may help support brain health in older adults, new study finds
AOL.com • • health
Key Points:
- A small study from Maastricht University Medical Center found that daily consumption of 60 grams of unsalted, skin-roasted peanuts for 16 weeks improved insulin responsiveness in memory-related brain regions of healthy older adults aged 60 to 75.
- The research showed a 4% increase in overall brain blood flow and enhanced insulin response in areas like the hippocampus, which is important for memory.
- Insulin plays a crucial role in brain health by supporting communication between nerve cells and cognitive functions, beyond its role in blood sugar regulation.
- Experts caution that while peanuts may support brain insulin responsiveness, there is no evidence they prevent cognitive decline or Alzheimer's disease, and overall dietary patterns like the Mediterranean diet remain more important.
- The study was small and funded by the Peanut Institute Foundation, but the foundation had no influence on the study’s design or publication, and further research is needed to confirm long-term cognitive benefits.
