A study spanning up to 43 years has found that drinking two to three cups of caffeinated coffee daily is associated with a dramatically lower risk of dementia and better cognitive functioning in later life. The research, which tracked participants over decades, suggests the link held regardless of whether individuals carried genetic risk factors for dementia. However, the same association was not observed among those who drank decaffeinated coffee, indicating that caffeine may play a central role in the apparent protective effect.
The findings add to a growing body of evidence examining coffee's potential neurological benefits, though researchers caution that observational studies cannot establish causation. The long follow-up period strengthens the data, but scientists say further clinical trials are needed to confirm whether caffeine directly reduces dementia risk or whether other factors explain the correlation. Health experts note that the results should not prompt non-coffee drinkers to take up the habit, and that moderation remains advisable given caffeine's known side effects. The study authors recommend continued investigation into the mechanisms underlying the association before any dietary guidance is revised.
Independent reporting synthesized from primary wires and global correspondents.