Study claims caffeine could reduce risk of developing Alzheimer’s
Published 18 May 2010
Alzheimer's Society comment on research suggesting caffeine could protect against memory impairment and lower brain levels of protein (amyloid β).
Research has suggested caffeine could protect against memory impairment and lower brain levels of protein (amyloid β) thought to be linked to the development of Alzheimer's disease.
The study published in the May edition of the Journal of Alzheimer's Disease found caffeine had this effect in younger mice that had been genetically altered to mimic Alzheimer's disease (AD mice). Additionally researchers found caffeine reduced memory loss in aged AD mice.
Alzheimer's Society comment:
'For years we have treated coffee as nothing more than a pleasant pick-me-up. However, emerging evidence suggests that caffeine might have much wider ranging effects. Most recently it has been tipped as a possible way of delaying and even preventing Alzheimer's disease.'
'This paper sets out some possibilities of the benefits of coffee but further research is now needed. We need more funding into dementia research to fight this devastating condition.'
Dr Susanne Sorensen
Head of Research
Alzheimer's Society
Research paper reference: 'Caffeine and Coffee as Therapeutics Against Alzheimer's Disease' by Gary W Arendasha and Chuanhai Caob in Journal of Alzheimer's Disease 20 (2010)
Notes to editors:
- One in three people over 65 will die with dementia
- Alzheimer's Society research shows that 750,000 people in the UK have a form of dementia, more than half have Alzheimer's disease. In just 15 years a million people will be living with dementia. This will soar to 1.7 million people by 2051.
- Alzheimer's Society champions the rights of people living with dementia and the millions of people who care for them.
- Alzheimer's Society works in England, Wales and Northern Ireland.
- Alzheimer's Society supports people to live well with dementia today and funds research to find a cure for tomorrow. We rely on voluntary donations to continue our vital work. You can donate now by calling 0845 306 0898 or visiting alzheimers.org.uk
- Alzheimer's Society provides a National Dementia Helpline, the number is 0845 300 0336 or visit alzheimers.org.uk
