A new study has revealed that excessive coffee consumption may lead to cognitive decline in older adults. Conducted in the US, the research involved over 8,000 participants aged 60 and above and suggests that consuming more than three cups of coffee daily might be detrimental to brain health.
The findings, presented at the 2024 Alzheimer’s Association International Conference, indicated that heavy coffee drinkers faced difficulties with pattern recognition, logical thinking, and abstract reasoning – crucial aspects of cognitive health.
However, the study also offered some positive news for coffee enthusiasts. It found that moderate coffee consumption, defined as up to three cups per day, might actually help prevent cognitive decline. Researchers tracked participants for roughly nine years and observed that those who abstained from coffee or consumed it moderately experienced a slower decline in cognitive abilities.
Kelsey R. Sewell, PhD, a study investigator, noted: “High coffee consumption showed the steepest decline in fluid intelligence across the follow-up.” Fluid intelligence, which includes problem-solving and reasoning skills, appeared to be notably affected by high coffee intake.
Sewell added: “Our data suggests that moderate coffee consumption can serve as a protective factor against cognitive decline.” Tea drinkers should also take note. Another recent study found that individuals who never drank tea could experience a sharper decline in cognitive abilities over time.
On the contrary, moderate to high tea consumption seems to be associated with better brain health. However, researchers, including Sewell, caution that randomised controlled trials are needed to understand the neuroprotective mechanisms of coffee and tea fully.
The research, based on observational data, does not account for changes in participants’ tea and coffee habits from early adulthood. It suggests that moderate coffee consumption might benefit brain health or at least not be harmful. For those who consume coffee excessively, the study observed a clear trend of poorer brain health in individuals over 60 during an 8.8-year follow-up, emphasising the importance of moderation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions asked about this news
Does drinking too much coffee affect cognitive health in older adults?
Yes, consuming more than three cups a day may lead to cognitive decline.
Is moderate coffee drinking beneficial for brain health?
Yes, up to three cups per day might help fend off cognitive decline.
What cognitive abilities are affected by heavy coffee consumption?
Heavy coffee drinkers struggle with pattern recognition, logical thinking, and abstract reasoning.
How long did the study track the participants?
The study tracked participants for around nine years.
Does tea consumption impact cognitive abilities?
Yes, moderate to high tea consumption is linked with better brain health.