Aging opens the door to several chronic diseases, ranging from obesity and type 2 diabetes to cardiovascular diseases and neurodegenerative disorders.
اضافة اعلان
Changes in adipose (fat) tissue with age are a key factor increasing the risk of age-related diseases. Over time, fat tissue shifts from its normal role as an energy store to a source of metabolic dysfunction, secreting inflammatory substances and contributing to insulin resistance.
A recent study published in the journal Nutrients suggests a simple yet potentially impactful solution: daily walnut consumption.
Walnuts are more than an ordinary dietary supplement—they are a treasure trove of bioactive compounds, including:
Polyunsaturated omega-3 fatty acids
Ellagitannins, which are converted into antioxidant compounds
Essential vitamins and minerals
High-quality proteins containing essential amino acids
These compounds work synergistically on multiple levels, regulating oxidative stress by neutralizing free radicals, modulating inflammatory pathways, and potentially affecting the aging process itself.
Mechanistically, urolithins—produced from ellagitannins in walnuts—activate the Nrf2/ARE pathway, a key cellular antioxidant defense system.
In a study involving 22 participants with an average age of 49, researchers examined the short-term effects of walnut consumption on inflammation and oxidative stress markers. While no statistically significant changes were observed in cytokine levels or antioxidant activity, researchers suggested that the short duration of the study (three weeks) may explain the lack of noticeable effects.
These findings raise important questions about how plant compounds work in the body and interact with individual health conditions. The positive effects of walnuts may require longer periods to manifest or could be more apparent in individuals with higher baseline inflammation.
The researchers concluded that walnuts remain a promising tool against age-related diseases. Their unique components combat inflammation and oxidative stress, the two main mechanisms behind cellular aging. Rich in omega-3 fatty acids and phenolic compounds that are converted into active substances in the body, walnuts support cellular immunity and protect the cardiovascular system and brain.
Although recent studies indicate that the benefits of walnuts are more long-term than immediate, regular consumption as part of a balanced diet can help reduce the risk of age-related diseases such as dementia, diabetes, and heart disease, making walnuts a long-term investment in healthier aging. — Medical News
