It could give “a mental advantage” to be at the top of its form.
For a healthy brain, you have to bet on diet. If it is already known that a balanced diet can play on moods and mental health, it seems that the content of our plate can also have a positive impact on cognitive capacities, and it starts from the start of the day. This is what English researchers recently claimed. In a study, they highlighted the role of a shellfish fruit which, consumed at breakfast, could improve certain brain capacities.
To carry out their study, scientists have asked 31 young healthy adults to eat breakfast with or without the food in question. The participants then carried out various cognitive tests. Their brain activity was monitored just after eating breakfast, then within 2 hours, 4 hours and until 6 am after the meal. In addition to their cognitive measures, their moods and blood analyzes were collected for observation.
The results have indicated changes in neuronal activity, suggesting that the hull fruit could help the brain be faster in reflection tasks, especially those requiring concentration, organization and mental reflection. According to researchers, the food could also show a protective effect against cognitive fatigue over the day. Blood analyzes have also revealed positive variations in glucose and fatty acid levels, two factors likely to influence brain operation. What shellfish are we talking about? Nuts. “A handful of nuts at breakfast could give young adults a mental advantage when they have to be at the top of their shape” said Claire Williams, director of the study.
The cognitive nuts of nuts can be due to their specific content of omega-3 fatty acids, protein and flavonoids, a class of polyphenols. “There are an increasing number of evidence that interventions rich in flavonoids have a positive effect on cognitive function”explain the researchers in the journal “Food & Function”. The recommended handle corresponds to 50 grams of nuts. For a breakfast ideal for the brain, the study authors advise to incorporate them into 20 grams of muesli and 150 grams of vanilla yogurt.
