A new study published in the Journal of Affective Disorders indicates that consuming two to three cups of coffee per day is associated with a lower risk of developing mental disorders, particularly among men. Analysis of data from over 460,000 individuals in the UK Biobank, aged 40 to 69, demonstrated that moderate coffee intake has positive effects on mental health over an average observation period of 13.4 years.
On the other hand, consuming five or more cups daily correlates with an increased risk of mental disorders. Researchers note that coffee contains biologically active compounds, including caffeine, polyphenols, melanoidins, and diterpenes, which exhibit anti-inflammatory properties. Specifically, caffeine and chlorogenic acid may account for its positive impact on mental health. Caffeine’s mechanism of action involves neuroprotective effects through activation of the A1R receptor, associated with an antidepressant effect, and inhibition of the A2AR receptor, counteracting stress-induced neuronal dysfunction.
Previous studies have also linked caffeine’s anti-inflammatory effects to a reduced risk of dementia and delayed cognitive decline. Additionally, moderate coffee consumption may lower the risk of cardiovascular diseases, an important factor in all-cause mortality.