2–3 Cups of Coffee a Day Preserve Memory
A large study that followed over 130,000 people for 43 years
TL;DR
- Regular consumption of caffeinated coffee may offer a protective effect on the brain.
- A 43-year study of over 131,000 participants linked regular coffee drinking to a lower risk of dementia.
- Those who consumed the most caffeinated coffee showed up to an 18% lower risk and reported less decline in memory and concentration.
- Decaffeinated coffee did not show a similar association, but tea consumption did show a similar protective pattern.
- The most significant effect was observed with moderate intake (2-3 cups daily); larger quantities did not provide additional benefits.
- Potential benefits are attributed to bioactive compounds like caffeine and polyphenols, which may reduce oxidative stress, inflammation, and improve vascular function and glucose metabolism.
- While observational, the study suggests diet and daily habits, including moderate coffee intake, play a role in cognitive health.