Harvard Study Links 2-3 Daily Coffees to Up to 35% Lower Dementia Risk
Updated
Updated · The Jerusalem Post · Jun 14
Harvard Study Links 2-3 Daily Coffees to Up to 35% Lower Dementia Risk
1 articles · Updated · The Jerusalem Post · Jun 14
Summary
More than 130,000 U.S. adults tracked for up to 43 years showed an 18% lower dementia risk among people drinking 2 to 3 cups of caffeinated coffee a day, rising to 35% for those under 75.
Over 11,000 dementia cases were recorded, and researchers said repeated diet and lifestyle surveys strengthened the finding by tracking coffee habits over decades rather than at a single point.
Caffeinated coffee drove the association; decaf showed no similar link, consistent with theories that caffeine may curb brain inflammation, reduce oxidative damage and improve cerebral blood flow.
The study also found fewer memory complaints and less cognitive decline among regular coffee drinkers, including people with higher genetic risk for Alzheimer's.
JAMA-published researchers said the work is observational, so it shows correlation rather than proof that coffee prevents dementia, even as moderate intake is generally considered safe for most healthy adults.
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Moderate Caffeinated Coffee and Tea Intake Linked to Lower Dementia Risk: Insights from a 40-Year Harvard Study (2026)
Overview
A Harvard-led study published in February 2026 used over 40 years of data to explore the effects of regular caffeinated coffee or tea consumption on brain health. The research found that moderate intake of these beverages is linked to better long-term brain health, a lower risk of developing dementia, and slower cognitive decline. Importantly, these benefits were seen only with caffeinated varieties, as decaffeinated coffee did not show the same effect. The findings were consistent across different genders and genetic backgrounds, suggesting that enjoying moderate amounts of caffeinated coffee or tea could be a simple way to support cognitive health as we age.