Cracking the Nutty Secret: How Eating Walnuts Can Boost Your Brain Power

A study carried out by researchers from the University of Illinois found that eating walnuts regularly can improve cognitive performance, particularly when it comes to attention and memory. The study involved 50 adolescents and teenagers between the ages of 14 and 18, who were divided into two groups. One group ate snacks containing walnuts every day for 16 weeks, while the other group ate snacks without walnuts. At the end of the 16-week period, the group that had consumed walnuts showed significant improvements in cognitive function, with better attention and memory compared to the group that did not eat walnuts. The researchers believe that this improvement in cognitive function is due to the high levels of antioxidants and polyunsaturated fatty acids found in walnuts, which are known to benefit brain health and development. In addition to boosting cognitive function, walnuts are also a good source of protein, fiber, and healthy fats. They can be easily incorporated into a healthy diet as a snack or added to meals for an extra nutritional boost. This study adds to the growing body of evidence that shows the benefits of a healthy diet on brain function and development, particularly during adolescence and teenage years when the brain is still developing. So next time you're looking for a healthy snack, consider reaching for a handful of walnuts – your brain will thank you for it!  

Why Walnut Is Called The King Of Nuts

Walnuts are extremely beneficial for the body, so much that it won’t be wrong to say that they act like a wall of protection against diseases. Research has indicated that they help to fight cancer and strokes, improves metabolism and is also effective against diabetes. The nuts also possess anti-inflammatory properties that aid in weight management and enhances one’s mood. It is also rich in plant-based omega -3 fats and also contain high amounts of copper, manganese, molybdenum, and biotin. Cancer-Fighting Properties A study has shown that walnuts help to reduce the risk of prostate cancer and breast cancer as well. Just two handfuls of walnuts a day cut breast cancer risk in half and slowed tumor growth by 50 percent as well. It also prostate cancer growth by 30 to 40 percent. Heart Health People with an increased risk of heart disease should consume walnuts as it offers multiple vascular benefits. It prevents the formation of pathological blood clots as it contains omega-3 fat alpha-linolenic acid (ALA) which is anti-inflammatory. Eating just four walnuts a day has been shown to significantly raise blood levels of heart-healthy ALA  and walnut consumption supports healthy cholesterol levels. Rare and Powerful Antioxidants Free radicals are at the heart of age-related deterioration and walnuts are proven to have remarkable antioxidant properties that help to combat these free radicals. Walnuts contain several unique and powerful antioxidants that are available in only a few commonly eaten foods. This includes the quinone juglone, the tannin tellimagrandin, and the flavonol morin. Walnuts also contain polyphenols that help prevent chemically-induced liver damage. Weight Control Walnuts added to your diet can help you to maintain your ideal weight over time. Eating walnuts is associated with increased satiety after just three days. Brain Health Research shows that walnut consumption may support brain health as it contains a number of neuroprotective compounds, including vitamin E, folate,  melatonin,omega-3 fats and antioxidants. Consuming high-antioxidant foods like walnuts slows down ageing, increases health pan and also enhances cognitive and motor function in ageing. Diabetes Overweight adults with type 2 diabetes who ate one-quarter cup of walnuts daily had significant reductions in fasting insulin levels compared to those who did not. This spells good news to diabetic patients as the above benefit was achieved in the first three months.   Good for the gut: Recent research has shown that walnut plays an important role in reshaping the gut microbe community. Researchers are finding that greater bacterial diversity may be associated with better health outcomes. Walnuts in diet change the makeup of bacteria in the gut and thus contribute to good health. So include walnuts in your diet and enjoy good health and well being.