Good News for Coffee Lovers — and Tea Drinkers Too: Caffeine Linked to Lower Dementia Risk

Kokila Chokkanathan
A large, long‑term study has found that regular consumption of caffeinated coffee or tea may be associated with a lower risk of developing dementia and better preservation of cognitive function later in life. The findings were published in the Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA) after tracking more than 130,000 adults for up to 43 years.

What the Study Found

Researchers pooled data from two major U.S. health cohorts — the Nurses’ health Study and the Health Professionals Follow‑Up Study — to assess how daily consumption of caffeinated beverages affected dementia risk and cognitive skills.

Lower Dementia Risk with Moderate Caffeine Intake

  • Participants with higher caffeinated coffee intake had about an 18% lower risk of dementia compared with those who consumed little or no caffeinated coffee.
  • Similar results were seen for caffeinated tea, with drinkers having a 16% reduced dementia risk relative to non‑tea drinkers.
  • The reduced risk was observed even after adjusting for lifestyle and health factors.
Optimal Amount

The strongest associations were found among people who consumed:

  • 2–3 cups of caffeinated coffee a day
  • 1–2 cups of caffeinated tea per day
    Beyond these moderate amounts, additional benefits appeared limited.
Decaffeinated coffee Shows No Benefit

Interestingly, participants who primarily drank decaffeinated coffee did not show a lower risk of dementia, suggesting that caffeine itself — or other compounds associated with caffeinated drinks — may play a key role.

How Caffeine Might Help the Brain

Researchers hypothedata-size several biological reasons why moderate caffeine intake may protect brain health:

  • Neuroprotective compounds: Caffeine and plant compounds like polyphenols may reduce inflammation and oxidative stress in the brain.
  • Vascular support: Better blood flow and improved metabolic markers might help preserve cognitive function.
  • Slower cognitive decline: coffee and tea drinkers showed slower rates of self‑reported cognitive decline compared with those who did not consume caffeinated beverages.
Study Strengths and Limitations

Strengths

  • Long follow‑up: Participants were tracked for up to 43 years, providing strong longitudinal insights.
  • Large sample data-size: More than 130,000 individuals provided robust data for analysis.
Limitations

  • Observational nature: The study shows association, not proof of causation — meaning it cannot definitively say caffeine prevents dementia.
  • Self‑reported data: Dietary and lifestyle information relied on participant questionnaires, which can introduce measurement error.
  • Population specifics: Most participants were health professionals, which may limit how broadly the results apply to all groups.
What Experts Say

Health researchers and dementia specialists caution that while the results are encouraging, they are not definitive evidence that coffee or tea protects the brain directly. Other lifestyle factors — like diet, exercise, sleep quality, and overall health — still play a critical role in cognitive aging.

That said, the study’s lead authors note that moderate caffeine consumption may be a part of a healthy lifestyle that supports long‑term brain function.

Practical Takeaways for Readers

  • Enjoy your coffee or tea in moderation — especially caffeinated versions — as part of a varied, healthy lifestyle.
  • The strongest associations were seen with 2–3 cups of coffee or 1–2 cups of tea daily.
  • Caffeine alone isn’t a guarantee against dementia — but it may contribute to better cognitive health alongside other healthy habits.
Final Word

This large–scale study adds to a growing body of research suggesting that moderate caffeine intake from coffee and tea could be linked with lower dementia risk and slower cognitive decline. However, causality hasn’t been established and traditional dementia prevention strategies — like balanced nutrition, regular exercise, and good sleep — remain crucial.

 

Disclaimer:

The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of any agency, organization, employer, or company. All information provided is for general informational purposes only. While every effort has been made to ensure accuracy, we make no representations or warranties of any kind, express or implied, about the completeness, reliability, or suitability of the information contained herein. Readers are advised to verify facts and seek professional advice where necessary. Any reliance placed on such information is strictly at the reader’s own risk.

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