Texas Tech study examines pecans and brain health - KCBD

Dr. Leslie Shen, a professor of pathology at Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, is leading the study. Her team is recruiting 60 people, all at least 50 years old, who will be randomly assigned as part of the research. Shen says pecans carry antioxidants and fiber, and her team wants to track whether the nut affects memory, mood and overall brain health.

Shen framed the approach simply. "Food is medicine so in this study we are looking at how the pecans can improve or affect the brain health," she said.

For folks in Lubbock watching parents or grandparents show early memory trouble, this study offers a shot at something low risk to try alongside whatever else a doctor recommends. It is not a cure, but a daily handful of pecans is an easier ask than most clinical interventions. Researchers running the study locally also means West Texas families could help shape national understanding of diet and cognitive health.

Sixty people, one nut, and a question researchers in Lubbock now get to help answer.