Breakfast with walnuts enhances cognitive abilities throughout the day.

A team of researchers from the University of Reading and the University of Winchester in the UK, along with Tufts University in the USA, has confirmed that consuming 50 grams of walnuts at breakfast speeds up reaction times and enhances memory. This effect lasts throughout the day.

“Diet is one of the most important lifestyle factors that can significantly impact cognitive functions,” said Professor Claire Williams, the lead author of the study.

Walnuts hold a special place among foods that contribute to improved cognitive health. Several previous epidemiological studies have found a positive link between regular walnut consumption and cognitive functions, Professor Williams recalled.

“The benefits of walnuts for cognitive functions may be attributed to their specific nutrient content, as they are known to be rich in omega-3 fatty acids, proteins/peptides, and flavonoids (a class of polyphenols),” the researchers noted in their report.

What Did the Researchers Discover?

The primary goal of the new study was to determine the cognitive and emotional effects of consuming walnut-based breakfasts throughout the day.

The team involved 32 healthy young adults aged 18 to 30 who ate breakfasts containing 50 grams of walnuts. During the study, participants underwent various cognitive tests, and their brain activity was monitored for six hours after each breakfast.

Records of brain activity revealed changes in neural activity, according to Sci.news. These changes led scientists to believe that walnuts help the brain function more efficiently when tackling complex mental tasks. Meanwhile, blood tests of the volunteers showed positive changes in glucose and fatty acid levels—both of which affect brain function.