Brain Health as You Age by Steven P. Simmons MD

Author:Steven P. Simmons MD
Language: eng
Format: epub, mobi
Tags: undefined
Publisher: Rowman & Littlefield Publishers
Published: 2012-11-08T16:00:00+00:00

Can Caffeine Promote Brain Health?

Caffeine is a central nervous system stimulant that also is an essential ingredient in many foods and drinks. It is well known for its short-term stimulating effects on central nervous system functions that can result in improved attention, memory, and motor performance. In recent years, researchers have begun to investigate whether routine consumption of caffeine, especially in the form of coffee, may have long-term neuroprotective effects. Coffee is consumed by more than 60 percent of US adults;[7] therefore, the potential benefits could be significant for many people.

As of the writing of this book, a majority of studies support the hypothesis that coffee can protect against the cognitive decline associated with dementia. Most of these studies report that daily consumption of three to five cups of coffee during midlife is protective against the development of dementia, perhaps lowering risk as much as 65 percent. The research investigating the protective effects of caffeinated tea is less supportive. It is unclear the ingredients or mechanisms by which coffee conveys neuroprotective properties, but there are a few possible explanations. One possibility is that the caffeine in coffee blocks inflammatory responses that would otherwise threaten neuronal health. A second explanation is that caffeine, which is an adenosine receptor antagonist, blocks receptors that might contribute to the buildup of toxic proteins, like tau. A third explanation is that caffeine in coffee may lower the risk for type 2 diabetes, perhaps by increasing insulin sensitivity, and consequently lowers dementia risk. Finally, coffee may increase antioxidant capacity, reducing dementia risk by reducing oxidation on chemicals in the brain.

While the research regarding the benefits of coffee is promising, it should be pointed out that coffee can be harmful for many people, especially at high levels. In large amounts, coffee can result in insomnia, nervousness, restlessness, irritability, an upset stomach, and a rapid or irregular heartbeat.

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