“Walnuts contain nutrients such as healthy fats, antioxidants, and vitamin E, which all contribute to brain health by reducing oxidative stress and inflammation,” Zhu explains. 

Studies suggest that the nutrients in almonds, hazelnuts, and walnuts could help prevent or even manage Alzheimer’s disease5. 

“The plant compounds found in walnuts also have been shown to reduce inflammation and oxidative stress in the brain, reducing risk for brain disorders,” Chaudhry says. English walnuts (the most popular type) hold multiple phytochemicals6, including high amounts of polyunsaturated fatty acids, which benefit brain health. The polyphenolic compounds in walnuts reduce inflammation of brain cells and improve neurogenesis7, the formation of new neurons in the brain.

One study also discovered that regular consumption of nuts, in general, could be linked to a decreased risk for cognitive decline8.