1 avocado a day: scientists have discovered its benefits for brain function

Eating 1 avocado a day improves concentration in adults. This was stated by scientists from the University of Illinois (USA).

Avocados are rich in lutein, a natural food compound with antioxidant properties that is associated with improved cognitive abilities. While the benefits of its consumption are already known in children and the elderly, there have been no studies that have examined the impact on the health of the middle-aged group.

OBOZREVATEL offers to familiarize yourself with the main findings of scientists published in elespanol.com.

"It has previously been known that people who are overweight or obese are at greater risk of cognitive decline and senile dementia. It was therefore interesting to see if dietary approaches to nutrition could help in this situation, especially in middle age," explains Naiman Khan, study coordinator and professor of kinesiology and public health.

For 12 weeks, the researchers provided meals to selected participants (84 people) who were obese or overweight. The meals were identical in terms of calories and macronutrient content, but one group received 1 fresh avocado daily, while the control group did not.

The researchers noticed that eating avocados daily improved performance in one of the cognitive tests, namely the ability to stay focused even when exposed to some distractions. However, no improvements were seen in the other two types of tests.

"Avocado nutrients have a peculiar effect on the brain, contributing to the performance of a specific task. At the same time, they may be more useful for some cognitive abilities than others. There is also a possibility that with a longer study or other tests, it will be possible to see other effects," says Khan.

In addition, avocados contain high amounts of fiber and monounsaturated fats, which could also play a role in the observed cognitive effects. Future research will likely focus on these nutrients or how avocados affect weight, inflammation, and potential changes in the gut microbiota.