Drinking coffee in moderation may be linked to a reduced risk of developing mental health disorders, according to new research based on a large UK cohort.
The study, published in the Journal of Affective Disorders, found that consuming two to three cups of coffee per day was associated with the lowest risk of mental health conditions. By contrast, people who drank five or more cups daily were more likely to develop such disorders.
The findings are based on data from more than 460,000 participants in the UK Biobank, aged between 40 and 69, who were followed for a median of 13.4 years. Participants provided detailed information on their coffee consumption habits, including quantity and type, such as instant, ground and decaffeinated coffee.
A J-shaped pattern emerges
Researchers identified a clear J-shaped relationship between coffee intake and mental health outcomes. Moderate drinkers appeared to benefit the most, while both low and high consumption levels were linked to less favourable outcomes.
The association was found to be stronger in men, although the study did not establish a definitive explanation for this difference.
The authors noted that interest is growing in how dietary habits may influence the prevention and management of mental health conditions, which remain a major global health concern.
According to the World Health Organization, more than one billion people worldwide are living with mental health disorders, including anxiety and depression, which are among the leading causes of long-term disability.
Possible biological mechanisms
Coffee contains a wide range of bioactive compounds, including caffeine, polyphenols and chlorogenic acid. These substances are thought to have anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective properties.
The researchers suggest that caffeine may influence brain function through multiple pathways, including mechanisms linked to stress response and mood regulation. Previous studies have also associated caffeine with a reduced risk of dementia and slower cognitive decline.
While the findings point to a potential protective effect of moderate coffee consumption, the authors emphasised that further research is needed to better understand the underlying mechanisms and causal relationships.
Source: Euronews