Effect of Walnuts on Cognitive Function and Gut Microbiome in Older Adults
Oregon State University
Summary
The purpose of this study is to examine the impact of daily consumption of walnuts for 12 weeks on cognitive function, markers of inflammation and oxidative stress, and the gut microbiome in healthy adults age 55 years and older.
Description
The investigators will determine the extent to which daily consumption of walnuts by older adults for 12 weeks influences cognitive function and whether improvements are associated with changes in the resident gut microbiota. The investigators propose that age-related cognitive decline can be mitigated by consuming walnuts, by modulating the microbiota and microbial metabolites and decreasing oxidative stress and inflammation.
Eligibility
- Age range
- 55+ years
- Sex
- All
- Healthy volunteers
- Yes
Inclusion Criteria: * Age 55 years or older * Able to hear well enough to understand spoken instructions and questions * Able to see well enough to read and respond to printed instructions and fill out questionnaires (corrective lenses are allowed) * Able to write legibly and move a computer joystick with at least one hand (i.e., no injury or connective tissue or joint disorder that would impair ability to write or make hand movements) * Able to speak, read, and understand English * Score of greater than 79 on water maze learning task * Willing to maintain current eating patterns * Willing an…
Interventions
- OtherWalnuts
Daily consumption of 1.5 ounces of plain walnuts for 12 weeks
- OtherCrackers
Daily consumption of non-whole grain crackers for 12 weeks (caloric equivalent to 1.5 ounces of plain walnuts)
Location
- Oregon State UniversityCorvallis, Oregon