Can Coffee Reduce the Risk of Dementia?
Dementia is a neurodegenerative condition. It affects brain functions like memory and leads to forgetfulness and limited thinking capabilities. This then interferes with daily activities and impacts social skills. It usually affects older adults above the age of 65. However, dementia is not an inevitable part of the aging process. There are about 50 million people worldwide living with dementia, with 10 million new cases diagnosed each year, according to an article by the WHO. Sadly, there is no known cure for this medical condition. But the good news is that dementia can be prevented or at least delayed through various natural ways.
One such way is caffeine consumption. Studies have found that regular intake of caffeine has a protective effect against cognitive decline. This is because it tends to increase alertness. Coffee also aids in short term memory, which minimizes the chances of dementia. Take a look at how else it is helpful.
+ Delays the Onset of Alzheimer’s Too
Coffee is known to prevent inflammation in the brain. This can slow down Alzheimer’s and have a positive effect on the brain. When the disease progresses, proteins like amyloid beta and tau start to form clumps in the brain. Coffee is known to prevent this phenomenon of “clumping.” However, it is necessary to pick the right kind of coffee beans for yourself. Choose ones that have been grown in Africa or Southeast Asia and roasted in the traditional European method to preserve the unique qualities, according to an article by Grounds and Hounds Coffee & Co. Further, make sure they are absolutely fresh and stick to the 7–21 window for brewing.
+ Hypoxia and Coffee
This is a condition in which the brain is deprived of oxygen. This condition is marked by restlessness, shortness of breath and confusion. It can also lead to serious side effects, like high blood pressure, fatigue, depression, heart failure and pulmonary hypertension, according to an article on Healthline. These tend to occur when there is an interruption in the normal respiration process. The condition occurs when the chemical called adenosine is released. It leads to a chain reaction of enzymes, which might induce inflammation. Coffee interferes with this process by stopping the cell’s ability to recognize adenosine. This helps with the swelling and prevents the onset of Alzheimer’s.
+ Boosts Memory
Caffeine tends to stimulate the brain directly. It is the most widely used neuroactive compound worldwide, to heighten alertness and arousal while also improving speed and memory, according to an article on The Journal of Nutrition. This can alter the progressive course of diseases like dementia. It can have a great impact on long-term thinking skills as well. Make sure to combine coffee with a healthy diet for the best results.
However, coffee is not an alternative to treatment or medication. It is necessary to treat challenging behavior and psychological symptoms with the help of professionals. Further, one must know the line between safe and over-consumption of coffee. About 400 milligrams of caffeine is considered healthy. However, it is still important to consult your doctor beforehand, to avoid any adverse consequences.
