WeeklySA_AdminMODERATION: Long-term study among 131 000 adults finds moderate caffeinated coffee and tea intake associated with reduced risk of the condition and better cognitive performance…
By WSAM Reporter
For millions of South Africans who start their day with a strong cup of coffee or tea, new research offers a potentially reassuring message: moderate caffeine consumption may help protect the brain as we age.
A major long-term international study has found that moderate consumption of caffeinated coffee — about two to three cups a day — and tea — about one to two cups a day — was associated with a lower risk of developing dementia and slightly better thinking and memory performance in later life.
That may be reassuring to many who already enjoy their morning brew, but experts say it’s one piece of a broader, healthier lifestyle picture for older adults.
South Africa’s older population is growing steadily, and with that comes a rising dementia burden.
While national data is limited, estimates suggest there are tens of thousands of older South Africans living with dementia today — and the number is expected to rise as the population ages.
Conservative figures from past global reports put the number at roughly about 187 000 people aged 60 and older living with dementia in South Africa, with some later local studies suggesting that figure could be significantly higher in certain communities.
Smaller community research has found dementia prevalence among older adults ranging from about 6% up to 13% or more, depending on age and location.
This means dementia — which affects memory, thinking and everyday functioning — is a real concern for many South African families now and in the future.
What the Study Found
The long-term study tracked more than 130 000 adults for up to 43 years and found:
People who drank two to three cups of caffeinated coffee daily had about an 18% lower risk of dementia than those who drank little or none.
Similar benefits showed up in people who drank one to two cups of tea daily.
Decaffeinated coffee did not show the same protective link — suggesting caffeine or other compounds in regular coffee and tea may be important.
Researchers also noted that the benefits were modest, and the protective effect did not mean coffee alone could prevent dementia.
For South Africans in their 50s, 60s and beyond, health professionals stress that coffee or tea can complement — but not replace — proven brain-healthy habits:
• Keep your blood pressure and blood sugar under control;
• Stay physically active (even daily walks help);
• Maintain social connections and mental engagement;
• Eat a balanced diet rich in vegetables, whole grains and healthy fats;
• Get good sleep; and
• Avoid smoking and excessive alcohol.
Lead author Yu Zhang, a doctoral researcher at Harvard Chan School and trainee at Mass General Brigham, said:
“We compared people with different genetic risks for dementia and saw similar results”.
While the findings are promising, researchers emphasise that coffee alone is not a cure-all for cognitive decline.
Dementia prevention likely depends on multiple factors, including physical activity, cardiovascular health, social engagement and overall diet quality.
Still, for millions who already enjoy their daily brew, the research offers encouraging news: moderate coffee or tea consumption may support long-term brain health.
