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Almonds are fine, but there’s a better option: the underrated food that boosts brain health even more

Food, brain, health

Almonds and nuts.

Almonds get plenty of love as a brain-healthy snack, yet they are not the only nutrient-packed option in the realm of cognitive foods. There’s another everyday food that offers even more benefits, particularly for older adults. It’s more affordable and widely accessible: we’re referring to peanuts.

Brimming with distinctive compounds that sharpen memory, enhance cerebral blood flow, and slow cognitive decline, peanuts provide many advantages for brain health. Here, we’ll break down the science behind their brain-boosting power and share practical ways to incorporate them into your meals.

Incorporate peanuts for brain health

Studies show that regular peanut consumption can improve short-term memory and processing speed in older adults, with benefits becoming noticeable in as little as 12 weeks. The secret lies in a synergistic blend of resveratrol, folate, and polyphenols that work together to enhance communication between the gut and the brain. These also help reduce oxidative stress, a major factor driving cognitive decline.

While almonds provide vitamin E and magnesium, their influence on brain health appears less consistent. For example, one six-month trial revealed that they enhanced only specific memory tasks, whereas peanuts improved cerebrovascular function, a critical element for maintaining healthy blood flow throughout the brain.

Besides, peanuts contain more folate, a nutrient vital for brain development and for slowing age-related cognitive decline. Considering their affordability and potent nutritional profile, it becomes a food clearly worthy of our attention.

How to add peanuts to your diet

Peanuts work well in sweet and savory dishes alike. Here are five easy ways to enjoy them daily:

Even small portions matter. Just 1–2 servings daily (think a handful of nuts or a tablespoon of peanut butter) can make a difference to your diet. Keeping a jar of peanuts on your desk or blending them into dressings ensures you enjoy their benefits consistently throughout the day.

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