Did you know that Chinese mothers feed their children walnuts before an exam?

Ancient Chinese wisdom says that the nut, which resembles the brain, helps with recall. Modern Western medical science agrees.

Recent research found that walnuts can “improve learning, memory, motor skills and reduce anxiety- at least in mice.” The scientists fed a test group of mice the equivalent of 1+ ounces of walnuts for humans. Those given the walnuts performed far better in mazes and other tests.” “Our study adds to the growing body of research that demonstrate the protective effects of walnuts on cognitive functioning.” Washington Post, Dr. Abha Chauhan. The antioxidants in walnuts may be responsible for the possible benefits, including lowering Alzheimer’s risk and delaying its onset or progression. Indeed, walnuts are second only to blackberries on a 1,100 item list of anti-oxidative foods, says Chauhan. The researcher’s earlier work suggested that walnut extract could fight damage linked to amyloid plaques which develop in the brains of Alzheimer’s patients.

The recommended daily intake of walnuts is 1–1.5 oz. One ounce is 1/4 cup or a heaping handful. Be aware that walnuts are high in calories, 190 calories per ounce. But their benefit might motivate you to cut out a sweet indulgence in favor of a handful of these brain boosters.

www.foxnews.com/health/2014/10/27/simple snack-may-offer-alzheimer-protection/