Eating peanuts regularly may offer benefits for brain health, particularly among older adults. A new study has found that daily consumption of unsalted, skin-roasted peanuts improved the brain’s response to insulin in areas associated with memory and cognitive function.
The research was conducted by scientists at Maastricht University Medical Center in the Netherlands and highlights how certain nutrients in everyday foods may contribute to healthy brain ageing.
Study Examines the Effects of Daily Peanut Consumption
The study involved 31 healthy adults aged 60 to 75. Participants consumed approximately 60 grams of unsalted, skin-roasted peanuts daily for 16 weeks.
Researchers used advanced brain imaging techniques to examine changes in different brain regions. The results showed improved insulin responsiveness in several areas of the right hemisphere, including the hippocampus and other regions involved in memory-related processes.
Insulin is not only important for controlling blood sugar but also plays a role in brain function. It helps nerve cells communicate and supports processes involved in learning and memory.
Earlier Research Also Found Memory Improvements
The latest findings build on an earlier investigation published in 2025.
That research found that consuming peanuts for 16 weeks was associated with a 3.6% increase in overall blood flow to the brain and a 5.8% improvement in verbal memory performance.
Healthy blood circulation is essential for supplying brain cells with oxygen and nutrients.
Nutrients in Peanuts May Play an Important Role
Researchers believe several nutrients found in peanuts may contribute to the observed effects.
These include:
- Unsaturated fats that support overall health.
- Dietary fibre that helps maintain digestive health.
- Vitamins and minerals needed for normal body functions.
- Plant-based protein and L-arginine, which plays a role in the production of nitric oxide.
The combined effect of these nutrients may help explain why peanuts showed promising results in the study.
More Research Needed to Confirm Long-Term Benefits
Although the findings are encouraging, the study included only 31 participants and focused on healthy older adults over a 16-week period.
Researchers say further studies involving larger groups and longer observation periods will be needed to understand the long-term effects.
The research adds to growing scientific interest in the relationship between nutrition, brain function and healthy ageing. However, peanuts should be considered one part of a balanced diet rather than a treatment or guaranteed way to prevent memory-related diseases.
