Can Peanuts Do More Than We Think? New Research Shows Brain Benefits

New Research Offers Promising Findings That Daily Peanuts Can Support Brain Health

New research suggests that a small serving of peanuts each day may support brain health in older adults. A recently reported clinical trial found improvements in cerebral blood flow and memory performance when adults ages 60 to 75 added peanuts to their daily routine.

What the Study Looked At

Participants took part in a 16 week trial that alternated between two phases. In one phase, they ate 60 grams of unsalted skin roasted peanuts each day. In the other phase, they avoided peanuts completely. Throughout the study, researchers monitored brain vascular function using MRI technology and conducted standardized memory tests.

What Researchers Found

The results pointed to several noteworthy changes during the peanut eating phase.

• Cerebral blood flow increased by about 3.6 percent, particularly in regions involved in memory and decision making.
• Verbal memory scores improved compared to the period with no peanut intake.
• Systolic blood pressure and pulse pressure showed small but positive shifts, suggesting potential support for broader vascular health.

Although the study was modest in size, the measured improvements were more than incidental. They indicate that peanuts may play a supportive role in healthy aging and cognitive function.

Why Peanuts Might Matter

Peanuts contain nutrients that may contribute to improved vascular function, including L arginine, healthy fats, fiber and antioxidants. The peanut skins used in this study also contain polyphenols, which may further influence blood flow. While more research is needed to understand the mechanisms, the combination of these nutrients may help explain the observed changes.

What This Means for Everyday Life

These findings do not suggest that peanuts can prevent cognitive decline, but they do add to growing interest in how simple dietary choices can influence aging. For many people, adding a modest portion of peanuts to a balanced diet may be an approachable way to support vascular and cognitive health. Longer studies are underway to understand the long term implications.

Sources

Summary of findings reported through Fox News Health
Study information provided through Morningstar Newswire