Daily Coffee and Tea Consumption Linked to Reduced Dementia Risk in Long-Term Study
According to a comprehensive new study spanning over four decades, regularly drinking caffeinated coffee or tea may offer a slight protective benefit against dementia and cognitive decline. The research, funded by the National Institutes of Health and published in JAMA, analyzed data from 131,821 American adults over a remarkable 43-year period.
Key Findings on Caffeine and Brain Health
The study revealed that participants who consumed the highest amounts of caffeinated coffee experienced an 18% lower risk of developing dementia compared to those with the lowest intake. Additionally, these individuals showed a 2% lower rate of memory or thinking problems. The benefits extended to caffeinated tea drinkers as well, though decaffeinated beverages did not demonstrate the same association.
"Our study suggests that caffeinated coffee or tea consumption can be one piece of that puzzle," said lead researcher Dr. Daniel Wang of Harvard Medical School in a statement to Reuters. The optimal intake appeared to be two to three cups of caffeinated coffee or one to two cups of caffeinated tea daily.
Important Caveats and Context
While the findings are encouraging, researchers caution that they do not prove caffeine directly protects the brain. Dr. Wang emphasized that the effect was modest, and there are more established methods for safeguarding cognitive function during aging.
- Regular physical exercise
- Adequate sleep
- A balanced, healthy diet
Previous research has consistently linked these lifestyle factors to lower dementia risks. The study also found that participants who drank caffeinated coffee performed better on objective cognitive function tests, suggesting a potential acute benefit.
Potential Mechanisms and Future Research
Researchers hypothesize that bioactive compounds in coffee and tea, such as caffeine and polyphenols, may help reduce inflammation and protect nerve cells from damage, thereby slowing cognitive decline. Interestingly, the benefits were observed regardless of genetic predisposition to dementia.
"We also compared people with different genetic predispositions to developing dementia and saw the same results — meaning coffee or caffeine is likely equally beneficial for people with high and low genetic risk of developing dementia," explained coauthor Dr. Yu Zhang of the Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health.
The study authors note that more research is needed to confirm these findings and understand the underlying mechanisms. They stress that while daily coffee or tea consumption might be a simple, enjoyable addition to a brain-healthy lifestyle, it should complement, not replace, proven strategies like exercise and proper nutrition.
