A new scientific study has revealed that a popular and inexpensive winter-time dry fruit—commonly eaten in homes across the world—may help support brain health by improving blood flow to regions responsible for memory and decision-making. The finding comes at a time when concerns about age-related cognitive decline are rising globally, sparking curiosity about simple dietary habits that might help protect long-term brain function.
Researchers at Maastricht University Medical Center in The Netherlands found that eating two servings (60 grams) of skin-roasted peanuts daily improved blood flow to the brain among older adults aged 60 to 75. The study, published in Clinical Nutrition, is gaining attention because the improvements occurred even in healthy adults with no cognitive issues.
How peanuts might support brain blood flow
Experts note that brain health depends heavily on healthy blood circulation because blood delivers oxygen and nutrients needed for memory, focus, and problem-solving. The researchers wanted to see whether peanuts—packed with protein, healthy fats, antioxidants, polyphenols, and L-arginine (an amino acid linked to blood flow)—could make a measurable difference.
To test this, 31 adults participated in two 16-week phases:
• A control phase with zero peanut intake
• A peanut phase where each participant consumed 60 grams of skin-roasted peanuts daily
MRI scans at the end of each phase revealed that during the peanut phase, overall cerebral blood flow increased by 3.6%, and gray matter blood flow rose by 4.5%. Even more striking, important brain regions showed higher gains:
• Frontal lobe: +6.6%
• Temporal lobe: +4.9%
These areas are crucial for memory, decision-making, and language.
Improvements in memory and blood pressure
Alongside better blood flow, participants displayed a small but measurable improvement in verbal memory, correctly recalling more words during tests. Their systolic blood pressure also dropped by an average of 5 mmHg, which is meaningful because lower blood pressure supports both heart and brain health.
However, researchers caution that these results are not a treatment for Alzheimer’s or dementia, but they do suggest that peanuts may offer long-term support for vascular and cognitive health when eaten regularly.
Expert opinions and limitations
Independent experts who reviewed the study called the findings “promising” and said the crossover design added strength to the results. However, they emphasized that the small sample size means more research is needed—especially in larger and more diverse populations.
Dr. Tommy Wood, a Seattle-based neuroscientist not involved in the research, said the results align with growing evidence that polyphenol-rich foods help support vascular health. He added that people with peanut allergies may find similar benefits from dark chocolate, berries, or tree nuts.
Dr. Edmond Hakimi, an internal medicine specialist from New York, agreed, highlighting that the use of objective measures like MRI increases confidence in the study’s findings. Yet, he also noted that the small participant pool means future research must expand.
A timely reminder this winter
With millions worldwide concerned about memory loss and cognitive decline, this study arrives at a perfect time—especially in regions where peanuts are a winter-season favorite. While not a miracle cure, regularly consuming this affordable dry fruit may be a simple way to support long-term brain health.
