Effects of 24-Week Almond Supplementation on Executive Function and Processing Speed in Middle-Aged Asian Indians...

Area of Science:

• Nutritional Neuroscience
• Metabolic Health Research
• Clinical Nutrition Trials

Background:

• Prediabetes is linked to increased risk of diabetes and cognitive decline.
• Insulin resistance, oxidative stress, and inflammation are key drivers.
• Asian Indians with prediabetes are a high-risk population for metabolic and cognitive issues.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess the impact of daily almond supplementation on cognitive function.
• To evaluate changes in biochemical markers in middle-aged Asian Indians with prediabetes.
• To explore the dual benefits of almonds for metabolic and cognitive health.

Main Methods:

• A 24-week open-label, randomized controlled trial involving 60 adults (40-60 years) with prediabetes.
• Participants were assigned to an almond group (20% daily energy from almonds) or a control group.
• Cognitive function (CANTAB), anthropometry, glycemia, plasma α-tocopherol, TBARS, and hs-CRP were measured.

Main Results:

• The almond group showed significant improvements in executive function and processing speed.
• Almond supplementation led to reductions in weight, BMI, waist circumference, glucose levels, and HbA1c.
• Key biochemical markers improved, including reduced TBARS (oxidative stress) and increased plasma α-tocopherol.

Conclusions:

• Six months of almond supplementation enhanced executive function, processing speed, and global cognition.
• Almonds demonstrated dual benefits by improving glycemic control and antioxidant status.
• Findings suggest almonds may be beneficial for cognitive and metabolic health in prediabetic Asian Indians.