Longer-term soy nut consumption improves cerebral blood flow and psychomotor speed: results of a randomized, controlled crossover trial in older men and women

This cohort study examined the impact of long-term nut consumption on cognitive performance in 15,467 older women. Women who consumed nuts more frequently had slightly better global cognitive scores and verbal memory than non-consumers. High nut intake was associated with cognitive scores comparable to those seen in women two years younger, suggesting a protective effect against age-related cognitive decline. However, nut consumption did not significantly affect the rate of cognitive decline over six years. The findings support nuts as a simple, nutrient-rich addition to diets for maintaining brain health in older adults.

Add 2-5 servings of nuts per week to your diet to support brain health and maintain cognitive performance as you age. This suggestion is based on observational data linking nut consumption to better cognitive scores in older women, though no effects on cognitive decline were observed. As the study was correlational, causation cannot be confirmed. Use nuts as part of a balanced diet, considering individual dietary needs and allergies.