For researchers, walnuts are the top nut for brain health. Particularly, for this reason: They have a significantly high concentration of DHA, a type of Omega-3 fatty acid. Some researchers suggest that DHA may be the key to boosting your brain's performance and preventing age-related cognitive decline.
Walnuts. When it comes to nuts for brains, walnuts are some of the best. Walnuts are rich in DHA, polyunsaturated omega-3 acids (about 2.5 grams of omega-3 in every 28 grams of walnut), polyphenols and vitamin E. Studies show that eating walnuts significantly improve learning skills and memory while lowering anxiety.
Antioxidants are known to help protect the body against disease. The scientists said that all nuts have good nutritional qualities but walnuts are healthier than peanuts, almonds, pecans and pistachios.
APP-transgenic mice (AD-tg) with the APP gene mutation show memory deficit and Aβ deposition in the brain and are considered an animal model of AD. The recommended daily serving of walnuts is 1–1.5 oz, i.e., 28–42 g, which is equivalent to 12–18 walnut halves.
Almonds contain L-carnitine and riboflavin that helps in the growth of brain cells. One major chemical that helps the brain in cognitive function is phenylalanine and almonds do have this chemical in them. Consuming just five pieces of almonds every morning can help you boost your brainpower.
Nuts. Nuts like almonds, pistachios and macadamias each bring something special to the table. Almonds help improve memory, pistachio nut oils help preserve fatty acids and prevent inflammation, and macadamias contribute to normal brain function.
According to a study published in the British Journal of Nutrition, eating almonds at lunchtime can also improve your afternoon memory—just when your lethargy can make you forget important things.
An ounce (30 grams) of walnuts a day has been shown to reduce the risk of heart disease. The recommended serving size is a small handful or 1½ ounces (45 grams) a day.
They are also rich in Tryptophan, an amino acid that is responsible for producing serotonin, a mood-boosting hormone. Combine them together and you'll end up with a super nutritious snack that will equip you with all the ammo you require for a speedy recovery!
As nutritious as walnuts are, you don't need lots of them to reap the benefits. Also, too much consumption has been associated with gastrointestinal discomfort, allergic reactions, and high-calorie intake, causing weight gain, Make it a routine to stick to anything between 7-10 walnuts per day.
Most nuts appear to be generally healthy. But some may have more heart-healthy nutrients than others. For example, walnuts contain high amounts of omega-3 fatty acids. Almonds, macadamia nuts, hazelnuts and pecans also appear to be quite heart healthy.
3. Walnuts. Omega-3 fatty acids are often linked to improved brain health, and walnuts are an excellent plant-based source of this nutrient. Unsaturated fats like nuts, seeds, and avocados are imperative to brain function, and a diet too low in overall fat may result in regular brain fog.
Fruits. Certain fruits such as oranges, bell peppers, guava, kiwi, tomatoes, and strawberries, contain high amounts of vitamin C. Vitamin C helps prevent brain cells from becoming damaged and supports overall brain health. In fact, a study found that vitamin C can potentially prevent Alzheimer's.
Eating a handful of walnuts every day can lower your bad cholesterol level, known as LDL or low-density lipoprotein. In addition to providing your body with the nutritional benefits it needs, walnuts are linked to a reduction in inflammation.
At first glance, almonds come with slightly better mineral and macronutrient content. Still, there's one nutrient not on the table: omega-3s. Walnuts are practically bursting with alpha-linolenic acid (ALA), a common omega-3 fatty acid. According to research, walnuts are the *most* antioxidant-rich nut on the planet.
The best time to eat walnuts is in the morning. You can soak walnuts at night and consume them on an empty stomach. Alternatively, you may have them before bed at night.
Excessive consumption of walnuts may cause diarrhea, bloating, stomach pain or kidney stones. Due to the phytic acid they contain, too many walnuts may also inhibit the absorption of dietary iron, calcium and zinc. Recommendation: One ounce (10-14) English walnut halves per day.
Walnuts might cause bloating, stomach aches, and diarrhea among people with persisting digestive problems. Individuals with nut allergies should consult their doctors before consuming any walnuts. Walnuts are high in fats and calories, so consuming them in excess may contribute to weight gain and obesity.
“Almonds elevate the levels of ACh acetylcholine, a neurotransmitter in the brain that helps enhance memory and help fight conditions like Alzheimer's disease.
“Almonds can be difficult to digest as the skin contains anti-nutrients — tannins and phytic acid — that inhibit nutrient absorption and can aggravate pitta in the blood. So they are best eaten after being soaked overnight and by removing the skin.