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It’s a favorite first order for the day, but while a quick coffee can cheer us up, new research from the University of South Australia shows that too much could drag us down, especially when it comes to things. concerns brain health.
In the largest study of its kind, researchers found that high coffee consumption is associated with smaller total brain volumes and an increased risk of dementia.
Conducted at the Australian Center for Precision Health of UniSA at SAHMRI and a team of international researchers *, the study evaluated the effects of coffee on the brain in 17,702 British Biobank participants (aged 37 to 73) , finding that those who drank more than six cups of coffee a day had a 53 percent increased risk of dementia.
UniSA principal researcher and doctoral candidate Kitty Pham says the research provides important information for public health.
“Coffee is one of the most popular drinks in the world. Yet with global consumption of over nine billion kilograms per year, it is essential that we understand all of the potential health implications,” said Pham.
“This is the most in-depth investigation into the links between coffee, brain volume measurements, dementia risk and stroke risk.
“Considering all the possible permutations, we have consistently found that higher coffee consumption was significantly associated with reduced brain volume.
Dementia is a degenerative brain disease that affects memory, thinking, behavior, and the ability to perform daily tasks. Around 50 million people are diagnosed with the syndrome worldwide. In Australia, dementia is the second leading cause of death, with around 250 people diagnosed each day.
Stroke is a condition where the blood supply to the brain is disrupted, leading to oxygen starvation, brain damage, and loss of function. Globally, one in four adults over 25 will have a stroke in their lifetime. Data suggests that 13.7 million people will have a stroke this year and 5.5 million will die from it.
Professor Elina Hyppönen, Principal Investigator and Director of the Australian Center for Precision Health at UniSA, says that while the news can be bitter for coffee lovers, it’s about finding a balance between what you drink and what is good for your health.
“This research provides vital information on excessive coffee consumption and brain health, but like so much in life, moderation is key,” says Professor Hyppönen.
“Along with other genetic evidence and a randomized controlled trial, this data strongly suggests that high coffee consumption can adversely affect brain health. While the exact mechanisms are not known, one simple thing we can do is to stay hydrated and not to forget to drink some water next to that cup of coffee.
“The typical daily coffee consumption is between one and two standard cups of coffee. Of course, while unit measurements may vary, a few cups of coffee per day is usually sufficient.
“However, if you find that your coffee intake reaches more than six cups a day, it is time for you to review your next drink.”
To note:
* International research partners include: University of Addis Ababa, Ethiopia; University of Cambridge, England; University of Exeter, England, Alan Turing Institute, England.
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