As we start to emerge from the wintry haze post-December’s festivities, it turns out a humble Christmas leftover might just be the ticket to thinking clearly this new year.
Lurking away in our cupboards, walnuts – known for their cholesterol-lowering properties – could also help improve our brain power this winter. The team at CardPlayer Lifestyle has shared information about the humble nut, showing that they are so much more than just a festive treat.
Packed with omega-3 fatty acids, antioxidants, and vitamin E the nuts been hailed as the ‘5p wonder food’ for clearing those mental cobwebs without breaking the bank. Already well known for their ability to help lower dangerous cholestorol, they are also great memory enhancers, concentration sharpeners and defenders against cognitive deterioration.
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Dr. Emma Patel, who specialises in nutrition for brain health, is also an advocate for the walnut’s benefits. She said: “Walnuts are a perfect choice to maintain and boost brain performance. Their unique nutrient profile supports healthy neural connections, aiding critical thinking and problem-solving abilities.”
The doctor added: “Regular consumption could make a noticeable difference in cognitive function over time.”
Walnuts are a great healthy snack
(Image: Getty Images)
Her statement is not unfounded either, as research backs up the superhero status of walnuts. A peer-reviewed article in the Journal of Nutrition and Neuroscience points out tangible improvements in working memory and the speed at which the brain processes information among those who included walnuts in their diets, reports Surrey Live.
Complementing these findings, UCLA research associates eating walnuts with superior cognitive test results across various adult age brackets.
Just a small size portion of roughly 30 grams can give your brain a substantial nutrient boost. You can scatter them over your morning porridge, mix them into smoothies or savour them as a snack on their own.