The Brain-boosting nutrition in nuts

October 22 is National Nut Day and it’s the perfect time to share the brain-boosting nutrition of different types of nuts.

Although nuts contain a lot of minerals (including copper, zinc, selenium, potassium, and phosphorous), it’s their unsaturated fatty acids that truly steal the show! These fatty acides aren’t just essential for our brains, but they also facilitate the growth of new brain cells to improve concentration, boost memory, and help you think faster. Nuts are also rich in antioxidant and anti-inflammatory molecules that stave off neurodegenerative diseases, such as Alzheimer’s, Huntington’s, and Parkinson ‘s.

So, among edible nuts, what are the best to eat for brain health?

According to Vermifood.com, these are the top four:

1. Walnuts – Rich in DHA, polyunsaturated omega-3 acids, polyhenols, and vitamin E

2. Almonds –  Highest in vitamin E, linked to protection against age-related memory loss and cognitive deterioration

3. Peanuts – High in vitamin B3 (key component of neuronal development and viability), lowers LDL, raises HDL (cholesterol buildup had been linked to amyloid plaques in the brain)

4. Hazelnuts – High in vitamin E (slows cognitive decline), manganese (improves brain activity), thiamine (helps nerve function and cognition), folate and fatty acids