Effect of Pistachio Breakfasts on Cognitive Function in Older Adults

Is this trial a fit for you?

A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.

What this trial studies

This study investigates how different serving sizes of pistachio nuts in breakfast meals affect cognitive function in healthy older adults aged 65-80. It employs a crossover design where participants will consume varying doses of pistachios or a placebo, with cognitive and mood assessments conducted at multiple intervals after the meal. Additionally, the study will analyze blood samples to measure inflammation and brain health markers, as well as utilize EEG and blood flow measurements to explore the potential cognitive benefits of pistachios. Participants will undergo a screening visit followed by four testing visits spaced one week apart, adhering to specific dietary restrictions prior to each visit.

Why it matters

Who can join: the full rules

Inclusion Criteria:

* 65 - 80 years old
* Fruit \& veg intake less than or equal to 4 servings per day
* Not regularly consuming more than 3 servings of fish per week
* Adequate English language and visual \& auditory acuity to perform the cognitive tasks
* Normal BMI for age
* Normal MMSE performance between 26-30

Exclusion Criteria:

* Being diagnosed with psychological or psychiatric disorders
* ADHD or dyslexia
* Any food allergy or intolerance
* Use of medications and dietary supplements that may impact study results
* Antibiotic use within the last 3 months
* Adherence to vegan or vegetarian diets, or other specific diets that may impact study outcomes
* Being diagnosed with cardiometabolic disease (including type II diabetes and cardiovascular disease), or suffer from untreated hypertension or thrombosis related disorders
* Taking blood thinners

Where it's running

• Nutrition, Cognition & Health Lab, School of Psychology and Clinical Language Sciences, University of Reading
  Reading, Berkshire, United Kingdom Recruiting

Study contacts

• Principal investigator: Claire Williams, PhD — University of Reading
• Study coordinator: Claire Williams, PhD
• Email: claire.williams@reading.ac.uk
• Phone: 0118 378 7540

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How to take part

1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
2. Check the official listing on ClinicalTrials.gov for the latest contact details and recruitment status.
3. Contact the study coordinator or principal investigator to ask for pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.