Drinking three coffees a day could prevent dementia and slash risk by more than a quarter
Research showed rich chemicals in coffee provide a 27 per cent reduction in the chance of developing Alzheimer's
THREE coffees a day could slash the risk of Alzheimer’s disease by more than a quarter, according to research.
The drink is rich in chemicals that protect brain cells, scientists say.
One caffeic acid, reduces the accumulation of rogue proteins which clump together, destroying memory.
It also reduces the deaths of memory nerve cells, and preserves levels of a signalling chemical.
Caffeic acid is in coffee and other foods, and is one of a number of polyphenol compounds found in the Mediterranean diet — hailed for health benefits.
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An updated review of previous studies said moderate, regular consumption of between three and five coffees a day could cut the chance of dementia by up to 27 per cent.
It said: “Studies have shown that rats administered caffeic acid showed improved cognitive function.”
Dr Iva Holmerova, vice chairperson of Alzheimer Europe, said: "The role of nutrition is an emerging area in Alzheimer's research and the potential benefits of drinking coffee, on both a nutritional and a social level, are increasingly being developed.
The study was published by the Institute for Scientific Information on Coffee, funded by major European coffee companies.
Currently there is not a cure for Alzheimer's Disease as death of brain cells during the development of dementia cannot be halted or reversed.
Around 850,000 people in the UK have Alzheimer's disease, with the number set to rise to a million by 2025.