Regular Caffeine Consumption May Lower Dementia Risk: Large Cohort Study

Nurses' Health Study and Health Professionals Follow-up Study

In these two large prospective cohort studies with long-term follow-up, participants in the highest quartile of caffeinated coffee intake had notably lower dementia incidence compared to the lowest quartile.

Key Findings

• An inverse relationship was found between caffeinated coffee consumption and dementia risk
• Similar protective effects were observed for tea consumption
• Decaffeinated coffee did not show this protective effect
• 2-3 cups of coffee per day was identified as the optimal range

Practical Recommendations

Moderate caffeine consumption of 2-3 cups per day is unlikely to be harmful and may lower dementia risk. However, adequate sleep, regular exercise, and social activities remain critical for cognitive health.