The Effect of Pistachio-Rich Breakfast Meals on Cognitive Function in Healthy Older Adults

This study aims to investigate the effect of a breakfast meal containing varying serving sizes (doses) of pistachio nuts on cognitive function throughout the course of the day in healthy ageing adults aged 65-80.

This crossover RCT investigates the acute postprandial effect (over a 6-hour period) of a breakfast meal containing varying serving sizes (doses) of pistachio nuts on the cognitive behaviour in healthy adults aged 65-80 years old. The study will also assess markers of inflammation and brain health by taking blood samples, and explore brain function (EEG) and blood flow (FMD) to understand how pistachio nuts may positively influence cognitive health. The study will involve a screening visit and four testing visits, with a week interval between each. On the evening prior to each test visit, participants are asked not to consume any food or drinks expect water, including tea/coffee and alcohol, after 8.30pm, and on the morning of test visits to only consume one slice of buttered white toast and a glass of water prior to attending the visit. During the four testing visits, cognitive and mood battery tests will be taken at baseline and then at 2-, 4- and 6-hour intervals following the consumption of the intervention meal. Blood draws are taken at the end of the day. For the subset of participants taking part in FMD, this will be measured at baseline, 2, 4 and 6 hours prior to cognitive testing. For those taking part in EEG, this data will be collected at 6 hours.