Ask brain matters: “does coffee really lower the risk of dementia?”

“I read that coffee may delay the onset of Alzheimer’s. Is this true, and if so, what do I do if I don’t like coffee?”

We asked Heidi Wulzen, R.D. to give us the facts. Here’s what she said:

Emerging research suggests that moderate coffee consumption may support brain health and is associated with a lower risk of dementia.

Coffee contains several compounds that may benefit the brain, including caffeine and polyphenols, such as chlorogenic acids. Laboratory research has also found that compounds in espresso may interfere with the buildup of tau, a protein that accumulates abnormally in the brains of people with Alzheimer’s disease. More recently, a large, long-term study found that people who regularly drank caffeinated coffee had a lower risk of dementia and cognitive decline. The strongest association was seen at about 2–3 cups per day. But flooding the coffee with flavors, sweeteners, and cream can undo the drink’s upside. Reducing added sugars and saturated fats such as cream is an important part of a brain-healthy diet. 

There is still a lot we don’t know. These studies don’t prove that coffee prevents Alzheimer’s disease, and researchers are still working to understand which compounds in coffee may be responsible for the benefits. Research is also ongoing to determine whether other beverages, such as tea, have similar effects.

If you don’t like coffee, no problem! You don’t need to start drinking it just for your brain. Coffee may be one way to support brain health, but it’s only one small piece of the puzzle. Instead, focus on an overall balanced eating pattern rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, beans, nuts, seeds, fish, and healthy fats. Bonus points for regularly including berries and leafy greens!

_____________

Heidi Wulzen is a Registered Dietitian based in Kona. She can be reached at heidi@heritagehealthhi.com.