"Coffee without sugar, an ally in the prevention of Alzheimer's and other dementias."

Coffee, one of the most consumed beverages globally, has come a long way in terms of perception and health. For decades, its effects have been debated, often highlighting its potential risks. However, a new study has brought a ray of hope by finding that sugar-free coffee consumption could reduce the risk of developing Alzheimer's and other dementias in older adults. This finding, published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, offers a new perspective on how this popular brew can benefit brain health.

In the conducted research, a large dataset of 204,847 people in the UK was analyzed, who were between 40 and 69 years old at the start of the study. Over an average of nine years, both coffee consumption habits and dementia diagnoses were recorded. The results were striking: those who consumed caffeinated coffee without sugar had a lower risk of developing Alzheimer's and related diseases, as well as Parkinson's disease. In contrast, no significant associations were found in those who consumed sweetened coffee, whether with sugar or artificial sweeteners.

The study not only highlighted the difference between sweetened and unsweetened coffee but also focused on the importance of caffeine content. The researchers observed that the benefits were maintained only when coffee was consumed in its natural form, that is, without sugars. This suggests that caffeine may have neuroprotective properties that help safeguard the brain from cognitive decline, while sugar could be interfering with those beneficial effects.

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), Alzheimer's disease accounts for between 60% and 70% of all dementia cases, while Parkinson's affects the nervous system and its manifestations are progressive. The importance of this research lies in the fact that neurodegenerative diseases are on the rise, and any findings that could contribute to their prevention are of great social and medical relevance.

The authors of the study divided participants into five groups based on their coffee consumption, from non-drinkers to those who consumed more than three cups daily. Interestingly, it was in the group with the highest consumption where the most notable benefits were found. Coffee drinkers had a 34% lower likelihood of developing Alzheimer's, a 37% lower risk of suffering from Parkinson's, and a remarkable 47% lower chance of dying from neurodegenerative diseases during the study period compared to those who did not consume this beverage.

However, it is important to highlight that not all types of coffee offer the same benefits. The researchers emphasize that sugar and artificial sweeteners may have adverse effects, prompting consumers to reconsider their sweetening habits. “The recommendation leans towards the consumption of unsweetened, caffeinated coffee,” the scientists state, suggesting that this could be the key to maximizing the benefits of coffee in relation to brain health.

This study adds to a growing body of evidence that highlights the protective properties of coffee. Previous research has suggested that coffee may prevent the worsening of dementia and that even those with hypertension can benefit from regular consumption. A study from Ningxia Medical University in China found that habitual coffee drinkers with high blood pressure had a lower risk of developing dementia compared to those who did not drink coffee.

Nevertheless, the researchers warn that further studies are needed to conclusively establish the mechanisms behind these associations and to better understand how various factors contributing to brain health can be managed. It serves as a reminder that health research is a constantly evolving field, where each new discovery can change our understanding of what is healthy.

Therefore, while coffee presents itself as a promising option for those looking to care for their cognitive health, it is wise to consider not only how it is consumed but also in what quantities. Moderation and the right choice of coffee type become crucial for promoting healthy aging and potentially preventing neurodegenerative diseases. Thus, coffee, in its purest form and without additives, can become an ally in the fight against cognitive decline, offering a new reason to enjoy this popular beverage.