If you are looking to eat something that would help you boost your brain health then walnuts are going to be your best friends! It is an easy guess, because it even looks like brain! So, of course, what could've been better than these nutrient-packed nuts. They are known for their cognitive benefits. You can have soaked walnuts. In fact in many households it is a common practice. Many people, including kids and adults alike eat walnut everyday to keep their brain healthy. It has become the go to for every Indian household, especially during the winters. Its history dates back to thousands of years. The oldest tree is dated back to 7000BC, the Romans called the walnuts Juglans regia, which means 'Jupiter's royal acorn'. If history is to be looked at, the walnuts came from ancient Persia and was initially reserved for royals. They were then traded along the Silk Road between Asia and Middle East. The first cultivation was however done in California by Franciscan Fathers in the late 1700s and the earliest of walnuts to enter California were called "mission" walnuts. Unlike the walnuts we see today, back then they were small and had hard shells. With time and technology, it succumbed to be area specific and now it can be found across the world. While the cognitive functioning is one of the major reasons for consumption of walnuts all across, what many do not know is how much should one consume? This is an important question because they are not only highly nutritious but also have high fat content. How Many Walnuts Are Too Many Walnuts?They are packed with essential nutrients like omega-3 fatty acids, antioxidants, vitamins and minerals. Omega-3s are greatly packed with alpha-linolenic acid (ALA), which are important for brain health. They also help reduce inflammation and support cognitive function.Research also suggests that only a modest amount of walnuts must be consumed. For walnuts per day, it is recommended that one should have a handful of walnuts. This could be somewhere around 28 grams. This amount also provides significant dose of omega-3 fatty acids, antioxidants, and other nutrients without overloading your calorie intake. How Much Is A Handful Of Walnuts?If one has to measure, a handful of walnuts would roughly be equal to 4 to 5 walnuts. These are when they are deshelled. Since walnuts could be difficult to digest, so it is important that you soak them overnight so the nutrients can be absorbed in the body easily. What Nutrients Are In Walnuts?Rich in AntioxidantsWalnuts have the highest antioxidant activity among common nuts. This comes from vitamin E, melatonin, and polyphenols, which are abundant in their papery skin. A 2022 study found that eating walnuts helped lower LDL (bad) cholesterol, which can lead to artery-clogging atherosclerosis.High in Omega-3sWalnuts contain more omega-3 fatty acids than any other nut, with 2.5 grams per ounce. These plant-based omega-3s, known as ALA, are essential fats the body needs. A single serving meets the daily recommended intake for men and women.May Reduce InflammationInflammation is linked to diseases like heart disease, diabetes, and Alzheimer’s. Walnuts contain polyphenols, especially ellagitannins, which gut bacteria convert into compounds that may help reduce inflammation.Supports Gut HealthA healthy gut microbiota is crucial for overall well-being. A study found that eating 1.5 ounces of walnuts daily for eight weeks increased beneficial gut bacteria.May Aid Weight ControlWalnuts may help curb appetite. A study showed that drinking walnut-based smoothies for five days reduced hunger and increased brain activity related to self-control.Could Help Manage DiabetesWalnuts may lower the risk of type 2 diabetes by helping with weight management and blood sugar control, as suggested by research.