Journal of Current Research in Food Science
2025, Vol. 6, Issue 1, Part A
Effects of walnut consumption on brain health: A review
Author(s): Saheli Dutta and Rupali Dhara Mitra
Abstract: Neurodegenerative disorders have become one of the most concerned issues of lately. Apart from clinical manifestations the initial prevalence of this disorder could be resisted by an appropriate dietary restoration. Walnuts have gained recognition for their potential benefits on brain health due to their unique nutritional composition rich in omega-3 fatty acids, antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals. Omega-3 fatty acids found in walnuts, particularly alpha-linolenic acid (ALA), may play a crucial role in supporting brain function and cognition. ALA is converted into long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) such as eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) in the body, which are essential for neuronal membrane integrity, synaptic function, and neuroplasticity. Thus, regular walnut consumption may contribute to the maintenance of cognitive function and may have potential implications for neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer\'s disease, Parkinson’s disease, depression, anxiety, confusion etc. Emerging evidence also suggests that walnuts may influence gut microbiota composition, leading to the production of metabolites that can positively impact brain health through the gut-brain axis. Additionally, walnut consumption has been associated with improvements in mood and psychological well-being, potentially due to the synergistic effects of its bioactive components on neurotransmitter pathways. Overall, the findings from this review suggest that incorporating walnuts into a balanced diet may confer beneficial effects on brain health and cognitive function. However, further research, including well-designed clinical trials, is needed to elucidate the specific mechanisms underlying these effects and to establish optimal intake recommendations for maximizing the potential benefits of walnut consumption on brain health. This review provides a comprehensive overview of the effects of walnut consumption on brain health based on current scientific evidence.
DOI: 10.22271/foodsci.2025.v6.i1a.180
Pages: 25-27 | Views: 74 | Downloads: 24
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How to cite this article:
Saheli Dutta, Rupali Dhara Mitra. Effects of walnut consumption on brain health: A review. J Curr Res Food Sci 2025;6(1):25-27. DOI: 10.22271/foodsci.2025.v6.i1a.180
