Many studies have focused on the association between diet and cognitive function. While a subset of these studies focused on a diet that includes tree nuts (TN), there is limited data on the association between peanut and peanut butter consumption (P/PB) and cognitive health.

This study investigated the association of P/PB consumption and cognitive function.

This was a cross-sectional study using 2011–2014 NHANES data.

Individuals 60–80 years old in 2011–2014 NHANES who had two 24-hour dietary recalls, cognitive function tests, and education level and with no history of stroke.

P/PB and TN consumption was measured as well as participant performance on the CERAD Word Learning subtest (CERAD W-L), Animal Fluency test (AFT), and the Digit Symbol Substitution test (DSST). Scores from the three cognitive tests were dichotomized. Individuals were classified as either P/PB consumers or non-consumers and TN consumers or non-consumers. Logistic regression models examined associations between P/PB consumption, tree nut consumption, and cognitive function with adjusted models including age, sex, and education as covariates.

A total of 2,454 adults, aged 60–80 years old (mean age=69.4) participated. Approximately half were male (48%), 18% were P/PB consumers, and 14% consumed TN. Participants who did not consume P/PB were more likely to do poorly on the CERAD W-L (adjusted OR=1.56, 95% CI 1.24–1.97; p<0.05), AFT (adjusted OR=1.29, 95% CI 1.03–1.61; p<0.05), and DSST (adjusted OR=1.43, 95% CI 1.12–1.82; p<0.05) when compared to those who did consume P/PB.

These findings suggest an association between P/PB consumption and cognitive function; however, this is a cross sectional study and a causal relationship cannot be established. More studies are needed to determine causality.