This daily habit could lower dementia risk by 35%, scientists say

"A large US study followed 131,821 nurses and healthcare professionals for as long as 43 years, beginning when participants were in their early 40s. Over the course of the study, 11,033 participants, about 8%, developed dementia. Researchers found that people who regularly consumed moderate amounts of caffeinated coffee or tea were less likely to develop the condition."

"The strongest benefit appeared in adults age 75 and younger. In that group, consuming about 250mg-300mg of caffeine per day, equal to roughly two to three cups of coffee, was linked to a 35% lower dementia risk. Drinking more caffeine than that did not provide additional protection."

"At the start of the study, women reported drinking an average of about four and a half cups of coffee or tea daily, while men averaged roughly two and a half cups. Participants who consumed more caffeinated coffee were often younger, but they also tended to drink more alcohol, smoke more, and consume more calories, all of which are associated with a higher risk of dementia."

"Researchers also noticed an unexpected trend involving decaffeinated coffee. People who drank more decaf experienced faster memory decline. The researchers believe this may be because some people switched to decaf after developing sleep issues, high blood pressure, or heart rhythm problems, conditions that are themselves tied to cognitive decline and dementia."

A large US study followed 131,821 nurses and healthcare professionals for up to 43 years. Over the follow-up period, 11,033 participants developed dementia. Regular consumption of moderate amounts of caffeinated coffee or tea was associated with a lower likelihood of developing dementia. The strongest association appeared in adults age 75 and younger. Around 250–300 mg of caffeine per day, roughly two to three cups of coffee, corresponded to about a 35% lower dementia risk. Higher caffeine intake did not add further protection. People who drank more caffeinated beverages tended to be younger but also had higher rates of alcohol use, smoking, and calorie intake. Higher decaffeinated coffee intake was linked to faster memory decline, potentially reflecting underlying health issues that prompted switching to decaf.

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