“They contain essential omega-3 fatty acids in the form of alpha-linolenic acid (ALA), which plays a role in brain function, has shown to help protect against heart disease and lower inflammation in the body,” Alanna Waldron, R.D., told mindbodygreen—in line with what this recent report found. And though participants in this research were given plain walnuts to eat as snack, we love adding them to our favorite dishes for added nutrients.