Here's the latest research. From the Peanut Institute đprnewswire.com/news-release...
The power of Peanuts : Here's the latest... - Cure Parkinson's
The power of Peanuts
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Here is a brief summary of the article:
- Researchers from the University of Barcelona conducted a study called ARISTOTLE to examine the relationship between the gut microbiome and brain health via what is known as the gut-brain axis.
- The study found that daily consumption of peanuts and peanut butter led to higher levels of microbial phenolic metabolites (MPMs) in participants. MPMs are compounds produced by gut bacteria that can positively impact brain function.
- Specifically, those who ate peanuts/peanut butter had improvements in memory and reductions in stress, anxiety and depression. This was linked to the higher levels of MPMs.
- Peanuts and peanut butter contain polyphenols and prebiotic fiber that nourish gut bacteria and allow them to produce beneficial MPM compounds. These MPMs can then influence the brain.
- The randomized controlled trial involved 63 healthy young adults consuming 25g of peanuts, 32g of peanut butter or a control butter daily for 6 months. Memory and mood improvements were seen in the peanut/peanut butter groups.
- The findings provide further evidence that consuming peanuts may positively impact the gut microbiome and its communication with the brain through MPM production.
Here are some other foods that are known to have a positive impact on the gut microbiome:
- Prebiotic fibers: Foods high in prebiotic fibers like inulin, oligosaccharides and resistant starch feed beneficial gut bacteria. Good sources include onions, garlic, asparagus, bananas, oats and legumes.
- Fermented foods: Fermented foods like yogurt, kefir, kimchi, sauerkraut and kombucha contain live probiotic cultures that help balance gut bacteria.
- Veggies and fruits: Many plant-based foods contain polyphenols, antioxidants and fiber that support microbiome diversity. Top options are berries, apples, oranges, broccoli, kale and tomatoes.
- Nuts and seeds: Along with peanuts, nuts like walnuts, almonds and seeds like chia and flax contain fatty acids, vitamins and minerals prebiotics.
- Dark chocolate: Dark chocolate with >=70% cocoa content harbors polyphenols, which produce microbial metabolites to influence host health.
- Whole grains: Grains like oats, brown rice, barley and quinoa provide prebiotic fiber and resistant starches beneficial gut bugs thrive on.
- Fish: Fatty fish including salmon, tuna, sardines and trout supply omega-3 fatty acids that encourage growth of beneficial microbes.
So in summary, foods high in fibers, polyphenols, antioxidants and healthy fats tend to optimize the gut microbiome composition the most.
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