American scientists concluded that moderate consumption of coffee and tea is associated with a reduced risk of developing dementia and a slight improvement in cognitive functions. The results of the study were published in The Journal of the American Medical Association.
Researchers analyzed data from nearly 132,000 people who were observed for 43 years. The sample included more than 86,000 women and over 45,000 men. Scientists regularly assessed the participants' diets and tracked cases of dementia.
The analysis showed that people with the highest coffee consumption had a lower risk of developing dementia: the ratio was 0.82 compared to those who drank it less frequently. For tea drinkers, the corresponding figure was 0.86. Decaffeinated coffee did not demonstrate a protective effect.
Similar results were obtained when assessing subjective declines in cognitive functions — such as memory and concentration issues. Those who drank coffee and tea more frequently reported these complaints less often. In contrast, decaffeinated coffee was associated with a slight increase in such problems.
According to the authors' calculations, the lowest risk of dementia was observed in those who consumed about 2–3 cups of coffee a day, 1–2 cups of tea, or received around 300 milligrams of caffeine daily.
The authors emphasized that the study is observational in nature and does not prove a direct cause-and-effect relationship. Nevertheless, the findings could form the basis for dietary recommendations for individuals at risk of developing dementia.
Memory problems, sudden tearfulness, aggression, and even a spontaneous love for dark humor can be early signs of dementia. The doctor listed other symptoms that should raise concern.
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