Recent studies indicate that incorporating a daily cup or two of coffee or tea into your routine may offer advantages in maintaining cognitive health as you age. The findings from two separate studies shed light on the potential benefits of these popular beverages in promoting brain health among older adults.
In one study tracking approximately 6,000 cognitively healthy adults over seven years, individuals aged around 68 years on average, revealed promising results. Those who consumed at least two cups of coffee daily exhibited a 38% lower likelihood of developing dementia compared to non-coffee drinkers. Similarly, tea drinkers showed a 36% reduced risk of dementia compared to those who did not drink tea. The presence of polyphenols in these beverages, known for their anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, is believed to underlie these protective effects on brain health, as noted by experts like Frank B. Hu, MD, PhD.
Another study, monitoring 8,451 cognitively healthy adults for nine years, focused on fluid intelligence, a key aspect of cognitive function that tends to decline with age. The research indicated that moderate coffee consumption (0-3 cups daily) was associated with a lesser decline in fluid intelligence compared to higher consumption levels. For tea drinkers, consuming one or more cups daily was linked to a reduced decrease in fluid intelligence compared to those who abstained from tea.
Experts emphasize the importance of moderation when it comes to caffeine intake, highlighting that excessive consumption may have diminishing returns on cognitive performance. While caffeine plays a role in the cognitive benefits of coffee and tea, excessive caffeine levels could potentially lead to negative outcomes, caution neurology specialists like Glen Finney, MD.
However, it is essential to note the limitations of these studies presented at the Alzheimer’s Association International Conference in Toronto. They were observational in nature and did not establish a direct causal relationship between coffee or tea consumption and cognitive function or dementia risk. Factors such as varying caffeine content in different beverages and individual lifestyle habits could influence the outcomes, emphasizing the need for further research.
As the research unfolds, understanding the nuanced effects of coffee and tea consumption on cognitive health remains a complex and evolving field, requiring comprehensive insights into individual habits and health conditions to draw definitive conclusions.
