By Sama Marwan,
A recent Japanese study has shed light on the impact of green tea and coffee consumption on brain function. While coffee boasts numerous health benefits, the study indicated that green tea may be superior in helping older adults reduce their risk of dementia, according to “The Independent” newspaper.
Researchers found a correlation between higher green tea intake and a reduction in white matter lesions in the brain, which are linked to vascular dementia and Alzheimer’s disease. The study, published in the journal NPJ Science of Food, analyzed data from nearly 10,000 elderly Japanese individuals who participated in an ongoing observational study on dementia. Participants underwent magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans and completed questionnaires about their dietary habits.
The researchers pointed out that high blood pressure is a “major risk factor” for these lesions, and previous studies have shown that green tea can help lower blood pressure. Green tea also contains less caffeine compared to coffee, which may contribute to reducing negative effects on blood pressure and, consequently, have a more positive impact on brain health.
A separate recent study found that drinking coffee in the morning may have greater health benefits compared to drinking it throughout the day, including a reduced risk of heart disease and death.
Green tea is made from the leaves and buds of the Camellia sinensis plant and contains antioxidants, vitamins, minerals, and caffeine. A typical cup of green tea contains 25-45 milligrams of caffeine. Coffee, made from the beans of various coffee plants, also contains antioxidants, and its caffeine content can reach around 100 milligrams per cup, depending on the brewing method.
The researchers added that the study was limited to the drinking habits of Japanese individuals, and therefore its findings may not be generalizable to other populations.
The study concluded that increased green tea consumption is associated with a lower prevalence of white matter lesions in the brain. Given that these lesions are closely linked to vascular dementia and Alzheimer’s disease, the results suggest that drinking green tea, especially three or more cups daily, may help in the prevention of dementia.
