Coffee, Tea Linked to Lower Dementia Risk

Caffeinated beverages were associated with modest cognitive benefits in long-term study

By
Kerri Miller
February 9, 2026
3 min

Conexiant

Overview

A prospective cohort study found that drinking 2-3 cups of caffeinated coffee or 1-2 cups of tea daily is associated with a lower risk of dementia and improved cognitive function. The study included 131,821 participants and documented 11,033 cases of dementia over up to 43 years of follow-up.

Background

Dementia is a significant public health concern, affecting millions worldwide and leading to substantial healthcare costs. Identifying modifiable risk factors for dementia is crucial for prevention strategies. This study explores the potential protective effects of caffeinated beverages, specifically coffee and tea, on cognitive health.

Data Highlights

Consumption Level	Dementia Risk (Odds Ratio)	Incidence Rate (per 100,000 person-years)
Highest Quartile Coffee	0.82	141
Lowest Quartile Coffee	1.00	330
Highest Tertile Tea	0.86	N/A
Lowest Tertile Tea	1.00	N/A

Key Findings

Higher caffeinated coffee consumption is linked to a lower likelihood of developing dementia.
Participants in the highest quartile of coffee intake had a 0.82 times lower risk of dementia compared to the lowest quartile.
Tea consumption also showed protective associations, with a 0.86 times lower risk in the highest tertile.
No significant association was found between decaffeinated coffee intake and dementia risk.
Subjective cognitive decline was lower in those with higher coffee intake.
Associations remained consistent across various demographic subgroups.

Clinical Implications

Healthcare professionals should consider discussing dietary habits, particularly caffeinated beverage consumption, with patients as part of dementia risk reduction strategies. While coffee and tea may offer protective benefits, they should be integrated into a broader lifestyle approach that includes other modifiable risk factors.

Conclusion

The study suggests that moderate consumption of caffeinated coffee and tea may be beneficial for cognitive health and dementia prevention. Further research is needed to confirm these findings and explore underlying mechanisms.