The study, published in the journal Clinical Nutrition, indicated that eating unsalted peanuts with their shells daily improves cerebral blood flow and verbal memory in older adults.
The study, conducted at Maastricht University in the Netherlands, involved 31 healthy volunteers aged 60 to 75, each of whom consumed 60 grams of peanuts daily for 16 weeks. The results showed a 3.6% improvement in cerebral blood flow, a 5.8% increase in verbal memory, and a decrease in blood pressure.
Peter Joris, associate professor and head of the research team, explained that increased cerebral blood flow, especially in the frontal and temporal lobes responsible for memory and concentration, means a better supply of oxygen and nutrients to nerve cells, which is linked to maintaining cognitive health.
Researchers attributed this positive effect to the rich composition of peanuts, which contain plant protein, the amino acid L-arginine, unsaturated fats, polyphenols, as well as fiber and antioxidants in the shells, which promote blood vessel elasticity and reduce inflammation, thus contributing to brain protection and improved brain function.