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Caffeine and Brain Aging: Cognitive Performance Benefits

February 13, 2026 - Admin

A large new prospective cohort study published in JAMA examined whether long-term intake of caffeinated coffee, decaffeinated coffee, and tea is associated with dementia risk and cognitive outcomes. The findings suggest that caffeinated coffee and tea — but not decaffeinated coffee — are associated with lower dementia risk and modestly better cognitive performance.

Study Overview

Harvard University and MIT researchers analyzed data from 131,821 participants across two large U.S. cohorts, with up to 43 years of follow-up. During this period, 11,033 cases of incident dementia were documented.
The study was funded by the National Institute of Health.

Key Findings

Higher caffeinated coffee intake was significantly associated with:

·       • Lower dementia risk (Hazard Ratio: 0.82; ~18% lower risk)

·       • Lower subjective cognitive decline

·       • Modestly better objective cognitive performance

Most pronounced association observed at 2–3 cups per day of caffeinated coffee or 1–2 cups per day of tea.

·        

 

Decaffeinated Coffee

Decaffeinated coffee intake was not significantly associated with lower dementia risk or improved cognitive outcomes, suggesting caffeine may play a meaningful role.

Moderate caffeinated beverage intake — not excessive consumption — was associated with the most favorable cognitive outcomes.

 

 

Clinical Interpretation

This observational research does not establish causation. However, moderate intake of caffeinated coffee and tea may be considered within a broader lifestyle approach to cognitive health, alongside sleep optimization, cardiovascular risk management, physical activity, and dietary quality.

Bottom Line

Over four decades of follow-up, greater consumption of caffein from coffee and tea was associated with lower dementia risk and modestly better cognitive function. Benefits appeared strongest at moderate intake levels.†

 

 

REFERENCE:

Coffee and Tea Intake, Dementia Risk, and Cognitive Function
JAMA
February 9, 2026
Yu Zhang, MBBS et al.

 

† These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug administration.
This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.