A popular hot beverage may offer powerful protection against dementia for people over the age of 40, especially men, according to new scientific research. The findings suggest that adding green tea to your daily routine could play a significant role in preserving cognitive function later in life.
Dementia, a syndrome affecting more than 55 million people globally, is characterized by progressive cognitive decline. Symptoms include memory loss, behavioral changes, and communication difficulties. With aging as the primary risk factor, dementia is most common in individuals over 65. However, researchers emphasize that lifestyle choices, including diet and drink, can also influence one’s risk.
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Two studies have highlighted green tea as a promising drink for reducing dementia risk. The most recent, published in the Journal of Alzheimer’s Disease, focused on a group of 1,155 Japanese participants aged 44 to 66. Researchers examined their green tea and coffee consumption in 1995 and 2000 through questionnaires, then evaluated their cognitive function between 2005 and 2015.
The results were compelling. Participants who drank two to three cups of green tea daily had a “significantly reduced risk” of cognitive decline. However, consuming more than three cups did not show additional benefits. Interestingly, the protective effects were strongest in men.
Coffee also appeared to provide cognitive benefits, though these were more pronounced in older adults. The study’s authors explained: “Our findings suggest that moderate green tea consumption in midlife may have a beneficial effect on preventing dementia, particularly in males. The effects of coffee consumption may be more advantageous for older individuals.”
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Supporting these findings, a separate 2020 study published in BMC Geriatrics examined over 4,600 people aged 40 and above. Participants were split into groups and assessed using the Mini-Mental State Examination and the Montreal Cognitive Assessment. Those who drank at least four cups of green tea weekly scored better on both tests.
Researchers concluded: “Habitual tea consumption, especially high-frequency and green tea consumption, was significantly associated with a lower prevalence of cognitive impairment in middle-aged and older individuals.” The brain-boosting benefits of green tea are thought to come from its high content of L-theanine, an amino acid, and epigallocatechin-3-gallate, a powerful antioxidant.
How to Lower Dementia Risk Further
In addition to drinking green tea, experts recommend the following steps to reduce your dementia risk:
- Eat a balanced diet
- Maintain a healthy weight
- Exercise regularly
- Limit alcohol intake
- Quit smoking
- Manage blood pressure
- Stay socially and mentally active
According to The Lancet, nearly 45% of dementia cases may be preventable by addressing modifiable lifestyle factors.
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