Good news for coffee drinkers. An unidentified component found in coffee interacts with the caffeine, which could help protect against Alzheimer’s disease. A new study by researchers at the University of South Florida and University of Miami found that the interaction seems to fight off the disease process. They tested 124 people between the ages of 65 and 88 and found that the caffeine levels were 51 percent lower in those who developed dementia than those who did not.
The study shows that caffeinated coffee increases blood levels of GCSF (granulocyte colony stimulating factor). GCSF is greatly decreased in Alzheimer’s patients and increased levels improved memory in older patients with mild Alzheimer’s and/or dementia.
It appears that as little as 3 cups a day will help protect against Alzheimer’s and that amount is safe for most people. Remember, too much coffee can lead to other health problems.
Other sources of caffeine, such as sodas, energy drinks, and tea, do not provide the same level of protection against the disease as coffee. Coffee is high in anti-inflammatory compounds that may protect against Alzheimer’s.