A large study was presented at the Alzheimer’s Association International Conference in 2024.
Researchers analyzed data from approximately 8,500 people over the age of 60, with an average age of 67.8 years.
Participants were divided based on how much coffee and tea they drank each day.
The researchers focused in particular on their ability to think logically and solve problems, also known as fluid intelligence.
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The study is observational, meaning participants reported their own habits. Therefore, there may be some uncertainty in the data, according to GEO.
Differences between coffee and tea
The results showed that individuals who drank tea generally performed better in tests of mental flexibility than those who did not.
Previous research has also shown that moderate coffee consumption may have positive health effects, including in relation to diseases such as diabetes and Parkinson’s.
However, the researchers emphasize that multiple factors are involved and that it cannot be concluded that beverages alone explain changes in the brain.
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Quantity is key
The clearest association was observed among individuals with high coffee consumption.
Participants who drank four or more cups per day experienced a faster decline in their mental abilities.
This was particularly evident in their ability to think logically and recognize patterns.
High coffee consumption may be associated with faster cognitive decline in older adults, while more moderate consumption does not show the same tendency.
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Sources: GEO and the Alzheimer’s Association International Conference.
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