Results from a 40-year study tracking 131,000 individuals have revealed how caffeine impacts long-term cognitive health.
Coffee and tea drinkers may have reason to celebrate. A large-scale study following 131,821 people, primarily in their 40s and 50s, over four decades has uncovered compelling data. Regular consumption of coffee or tea may reduce the risk of dementia by up to 18%, with the most significant benefit observed in those aged 75 and under.
The findings are being discussed by JAMA Network, Loughborough University, Science Alert, ScienceNews and Gizmodo.
The article details:
- Regular consumption of coffee or tea reduces the risk of dementia by up to 18%.
- The greatest protective effect is seen with consumption of two to three caffeinated beverages daily.
- Caffeine alone isn’t enough. other factors are also significant.
Researchers at Harvard suggest caffeine may have a preventative effect on neurons. This isn’t just a morning boost, but a potential benefit for long-term brain health. Those who consume coffee and tea also demonstrate slightly better memory and concentration compared to those who drink these beverages infrequently or not at all.
It Doesn’t Work Without Caffeine
However, simply drinking large quantities of these beverages isn’t the key. The most significant impact was observed with moderate consumption – analysis of the data indicated that an optimal dose is approximately two to three cups of coffee or one to two cups of tea (the scientific study did not differentiate between types). Higher doses did not provide additional benefits.
Caffeine’s Protective Mechanisms
The study suggests caffeine may have a protective effect on neurons. It’s not simply a morning pick-me-up, but a potential contributor to long-term brain health. Coffee and tea drinkers also showed slightly improved memory and concentration compared to those who consumed these beverages less often or not at all.
ilustračná snímka Zdroj: istock
In addition to blocking adenosine, caffeine possesses anti-inflammatory properties and helps regulate sugar metabolism. Both coffee and tea are also rich in antioxidants and compounds beneficial for blood vessels, which aging brain cells will appreciate.
The results stem from prestigious long-term projects, such as the Nurses’ Health Study, which began collecting data in the 1980s. Scientists also accounted for other factors, like smoking and alcohol consumption, to isolate the true impact of caffeinated beverages.
It’s More Than Just Coffee or Tea
It’s important to note that this was an observational study, and therefore cannot prove a direct causal relationship. It only demonstrates a statistical association, not proof that coffee or tea directly prevent dementia. Nevertheless, the consistency of the results over decades is striking.
However, coffee alone won’t protect you from Alzheimer’s disease if you neglect exercise, quality sleep, a healthy diet, and social activity. Experts emphasize that this is just one piece of the puzzle of a healthy lifestyle. Despite this, it’s encouraging to know that your favorite morning ritual isn’t just a vice, but may contribute to your well-being.
