Daily Peanut Consumption May Boost Aging Brain's Memory Function, Study Suggests
Research indicates that consuming two servings of unsalted peanuts daily could improve insulin response in brain regions associated with memory.
Consuming a daily serving of unsalted peanuts may offer significant benefits for cognitive function in aging adults, according to recent research published in the journal Food & Function. The study found that daily intake of peanuts can improve insulin responses in brain areas crucial for memory, potentially mitigating age-related cognitive decline.
Peanuts, though technically legumes, share many nutritional similarities with nuts, offering a rich source of plant-based protein and healthy fats. These components are vital for maintaining overall health, including that of the heart, vascular system, and brain, especially as individuals age.
The research involved 31 healthy adults between the ages of 60 and 75 who consumed two servings of peanuts daily for 16 weeks. Participants consumed either one serving at a time, split throughout the day, or incorporated into meals. A control period without peanut consumption was also included.
To assess the impact on brain function, researchers administered insulin nasally and measured regional cerebral blood flow using arterial spin labeling magnetic resonance imaging (ASL-MRI). Increased blood flow to the brain is essential for delivering oxygen and nutrients, which helps maintain strong cognitive function as people age. Cognitive performance was also evaluated using the Cambridge Neuropsychological Test Automated Battery.
The study observed changes in how the brain responded to insulin, particularly in regions involved with memory. These findings suggest that regular peanut consumption can enhance brain power. Another study from 2025 reported similar positive outcomes, including increased cerebral blood flow and improved verbal memory after four months of peanut consumption.
Dr. Peter Joris, a senior author of the study, noted that the brain's responsiveness to insulin can decrease with age, a factor linked to cognitive decline. "Multiple nutrients present in peanuts, including unsaturated fats, dietary fiber, vitamins and minerals, and bioactive phytochemicals, could potentially contribute to the observed brain benefits," Joris stated.
Peanuts are particularly rich in L-arginine, an amino acid that aids in the production of nitric oxide. Nitric oxide plays a role in facilitating learning and memory. Furthermore, the antioxidant properties of peanuts may help slow the aging process by reducing inflammation and preserving telomere length. Telomeres, the protective caps on the ends of chromosomes, shorten with age, a process associated with age-related diseases such as cancer, Type 2 diabetes, and heart conditions.