Researchers set out to test whether a daily serving of walnuts could ease inflammation and oxidative stress in middle-aged adults with cardiometabolic risk factors. Despite walnuts being nutrient-rich and packed with beneficial compounds, the four-week study showed no significant improvements in key health markers.
With age, the likelihood of developing obesity, type 2 diabetes, and cardiovascular disease increases dramatically.
This is often linked to changes in fat tissue, which drive insulin resistance and chronic low-grade inflammation. Enlarged fat cells release inflammatory molecules such as interleukin-6 (IL-6) and tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α), which worsen metabolic imbalances. In addition, oxidative stress generates harmful compounds that further damage tissues, creating a cycle of declining health.
Walnuts have long been promoted as a functional food due to their high content of polyunsaturated fatty acids, plant proteins, vitamins, and minerals. They are especially valued for compounds like ellagic acid, ellagitannins, and urolithins, which help neutralize free radicals.
Walnuts also support the body’s natural antioxidant defense systems, including catalase and glutathione peroxidase, which protect cells from stress-related damage.
To investigate whether these benefits could directly influence inflammation, researchers carried out a randomized controlled trial with 22 participants, of which 20 completed the study. The average participant age was 49, and each consumed walnuts daily for four weeks. Scientists carefully tracked inflammatory markers and antioxidant activity to evaluate changes.
Results showed that short-term walnut consumption did not produce measurable improvements in inflammation or oxidative stress. Still, walnuts remain a nutrient-dense food with proven benefits for cardiovascular and brain health. Researchers suggest that longer-term consumption or pairing walnuts with other healthy lifestyle changes may be necessary to fully unlock their anti-inflammatory potential.
Eating Walnuts Daily Shows No Short-Term Relief for Inflammation, Study Reveals
