Walnuts improve learning and memory in mice study claims

Eating walnuts significantly improves brain function in mice with Alzheimer's disease a new study has claimed. The New York based study was presented at the International Conference on Alzheimer's Disease.

 
Researchers fed the mice a diet containing 6-9 per cent and examined them nine to 15 months later. They found the mice on the walnut diet showed significant improvement in learning, memory, emotional regulation and motor coordination compared to the mice with no walnuts in their diet.

 
Alzheimer's Society comment:

 

'Walnuts are often branded as a 'super food' because they are high in antioxidants and omega 3 fatty acids. Now this study suggests they could have particular benefits for improving brain function.

 

'However as this research is carried out on mice, we cannot say for certain that the benefits of a walnut-rich diet would be in the same for humans. This study also does not show if improving brain function reduces risk of dementia. One in three people over 65 will die with dementia. More research is now needed to see if specific foods can be beneficial. The best way to reduce your risk of dementia is to eat a balanced diet, exercise regularly and not smoke.'

 

 
Professor Clive Ballard

Director of Research

Alzheimer's Society

 
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Research reference: 'Walnuts-rich diet improves memory deficits and learning skills in transgenic mouse model of Alzheimer's disease by Abha Chauhan et al.

Notes to editors:

• For spokespeople and case studies contact the Alzheimer's Society press office on 0207 423 3595.
• ICAD is the world's leading forum on dementia research. Run by Alzheimer's Association, it will this year be taking place in Hawaii from Sunday 11 July to Thursday 15 July.
• One in three people over 65 will die with dementia.
• Alzheimer's Society research shows that 750,000 people in the UK have a form of dementia, more than half have Alzheimer's disease. In just 15 years a million people will be living with dementia. This will soar to 1.7 million people by 2051.
• Alzheimer's Society champions the rights of people living with dementia and the millions of people who care for them.
• Alzheimer's Society works in England, Wales and Northern Ireland.
• Alzheimer's Society supports people to live well with dementia today and funds research to find a cure for tomorrow. We rely on voluntary donations to continue our vital work. You can donate now by calling 0845 306 0898 or visiting alzheimers.org.uk
• Alzheimer's Society provides a National Dementia Helpline, the number is 0845 300 0336 or visit alzheimers.org.uk