Food & Function: Peanuts Increase Brain Insulin Sensitivity in Older Adults

Daily consumption of peanuts may influence brain insulin sensitivity in regions associated with memory and learning. Researchers reached this conclusion following a randomized trial involving older adults. The findings were published in the journal Food & Function (F&F).

The study included 31 participants with an average age of 67. For 16 weeks, volunteers consumed 60 grams of unsalted, skin-on roasted peanuts daily. MRI scans and blood tests were then compared with a control period during which the participants did not eat peanuts.

MRI results revealed changes in the brain's response to insulin across several regions, including the hippocampus and the parahippocampal gyrus—structures key to memory formation and learning. The study's authors view these observed changes as potentially beneficial.

"At the same time, peanut consumption did not lead to noticeable changes in blood glucose or insulin levels, markers of lipid metabolism and inflammation, or liver fat content. This suggests that the observed effect may be specifically tied to the brain's reaction to insulin rather than an overall improvement in systemic metabolic metrics," the researchers explained.

The authors note that the link between brain insulin sensitivity and cognitive function warrants special attention. In a previous study, the same research team reported that regular peanut consumption among older adults was associated with improved memory scores.

However, the study was small and lasted only 16 weeks; therefore, its findings do not justify claims that peanuts directly improve brain function or prevent age-related memory decline. Larger and longer-term trials will be necessary to confirm the effect.

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