A major study tracking over 130,000 people for more than four decades has revealed a link between regular caffeine consumption and reduced dementia rates.
Harvard researchers found the biggest coffee drinkers faced an 18 per cent lower risk of developing the condition compared to those who rarely touched it.
Tea enthusiasts at the highest consumption levels saw their dementia risk drop by 16 per cent.
The protective effect appears to stem from caffeine’s ability to fight inflammation and stop harmful proteins accumulating in the brain – compounds known to drive mental deterioration.
Decaf fails to deliver
Anyone hoping to gain benefits from decaffeinated drinks will be disappointed, as the research found zero advantages from caffeine-free coffee or tea.
This confirms the stimulant itself provides the protection rather than other compounds in the beverages.
Healthcare workers formed the basis of the investigation, with scientists monitoring their intake of caffeinated products from coffee, tea, fizzy drinks and chocolate.
Beyond just lowering disease risk, higher caffeine consumption correlated with better overall brain performance and slower rates of cognitive decline.
Moderation proves optimal
The research revealed an unexpected twist – moderate consumption produced the strongest protective effects, with no extra gains for people drinking larger quantities.
Lead researcher Yu Zhang, a Harvard Chan School PhD student, explained: « Caffeine is likely equally beneficial for people with high and low genetic risk of developing dementia. »
Senior researcher Dr Daniel Wang from Mass General Brigham’s Department of Medicine noted: « While our results are encouraging, it’s important to remember that the effect size is small and there are lots of important ways to protect cognitive function as we age. »
Study limitations acknowledged
Dementia developed in 11,033 people during the 43-year tracking period.
Professor Tara Spires-Jones from the UK Dementia Research Institute, who did not participate in the research, cautioned:
« This kind of observational research cannot prove conclusively that caffeine intake was the reason for lower dementia risk. »
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