Scientists from the Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health and Mass General Brigham have found through a large-scale study that moderate consumption of caffeinated coffee and tea significantly reduces the risk of dementia and slows cognitive decline.
The study, which spanned over 40 years and included more than 130,000 participants, was published in the journal JAMA.
Research Findings
The study showed that regular consumption of caffeinated coffee is directly linked to the prevention of dementia. Among individuals who consumed this beverage daily, the risk of developing the disease was 18% lower compared to those who did not drink coffee at all or consumed it very rarely.
Scientists also identified a specific optimal dosage for maintaining cognitive functions, memory, and attention. According to the research, the best results were observed with the consumption of 2-3 cups of caffeinated coffee or 1-2 cups of tea per day. Interestingly, even higher doses of caffeine did not show negative effects on the brain; on the contrary, they demonstrated similar neuroprotective properties.
The role of caffeine as an active substance in this process is particularly noteworthy. Since decaffeinated coffee did not show a similar protective effect, researchers suggest that caffeine is the primary neuroprotective factor that reduces inflammation and cellular damage in the brain. It blocks adenosine receptors, which promotes neuronal survival and functional stability of the brain.
Bioactive ingredients found in coffee and tea, such as polyphenols and caffeine, help maintain brain health in the long term.
