This daily habit could lower dementia risk by 35%, scientists say
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- Study of 131,821 U.S. nurses and healthcare professionals followed for up to 43 years found that 2–3 cups of caffeinated coffee or tea per day were associated with a 35% lower risk of dementia in adults under 75.
- Caffeine intake of about 250–300 mg per day (≈2–3 cups of coffee) showed the strongest protective effect, while higher intake did not further reduce risk.
- Decaffeinated coffee consumption was linked to faster memory decline, likely reflecting reverse causation among participants with health issues.
- Researchers noted that participants who drank more coffee tended to be younger but also smoked more, drank more alcohol, and consumed more calories, factors that are themselves associated with higher dementia risk.
- Mechanisms proposed include caffeine’s blockade of adenosine, which may keep dopamine and acetylcholine activity higher, and its anti‑inflammatory and blood‑sugar‑regulating effects.
Why it matters: Older adults can lower dementia risk by 35% by drinking 2‑3 cups of coffee daily, potentially reducing future healthcare costs and caregiver burden as the population ages.
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