Tea Coffee Dementia Risk: Large Study Links Daily Cups to Better Brain Health
A daily cup of tea or coffee may do more than boost energy. Researchers say it may also lower the tea coffee dementia risk. A large study suggests moderate caffeine intake could support brain health.
Scientists followed more than 131,000 adults for several decades. At the start, participants had no cancer, Parkinson’s disease, or dementia. Researchers wanted to understand how daily drink choices affect long-term mental health.
The study included over 86,000 women from the Nurses’ Health Study. It also tracked more than 45,000 men in the Health Professionals Follow-up Study. Women joined the research in 1980, while men joined in 1983. At the beginning, the average age of women was 46 years. Men had an average age of 54 years. Researchers then monitored their health until 2023.
Tracking Beverage Habits Over Time
Researchers collected diet information every two to four years. Participants filled out detailed questionnaires about their daily habits. They reported how often they drank tea, coffee, and other caffeinated drinks.
This method helped scientists track long-term patterns. It also allowed them to compare caffeine intake with mental health outcomes. As a result, researchers could observe how habits changed over time.
Coffee Linked to Lower Dementia Risk
During the follow-up period, more than 11,000 participants developed dementia. However, people who drank more caffeinated coffee showed a lower risk. In addition, these participants reported fewer symptoms of memory decline. This pattern suggests coffee may offer protective benefits for the brain.
Tea May Support Mental Well-Being
Tea also showed promising results. Women who drank more coffee performed better in mental health assessments. Similarly, higher tea consumption linked with improved mental well-being. Therefore, researchers believe moderate intake of caffeinated drinks may support cognitive health.
However, experts stress that moderation remains important. Healthy routines, balanced diets, and physical activity also protect brain health. As a result, everyday lifestyle choices may influence long-term mental well-being.
