Caffeine has been found to strengthen the immune system and help prevent a wide range of diseases, from diabetes to memory loss.
Prof. Dr. Murat Baş, Head of the Department of Nutrition and Dietetics at Acıbadem University, Faculty of Health Sciences, emphasized that caffeine can be beneficial when consumed in recommended amounts.
Noting that caffeine is known to reduce the risk of Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s disease, Prof. Dr. Baş added that research has also shown caffeine improves sugar metabolism, lowers the risk of Type 2 diabetes, and supports weight loss in obese individuals. “As with every nutrient, caffeine should not be consumed excessively. When taken in moderate amounts, it has many positive effects on health,” he said. He also referred to a study conducted at Stanford University, which demonstrated that caffeine-containing products may help prevent conditions ranging from diabetes and memory loss to circulatory system diseases.
What Does the Research Say?
According to research conducted by scientists at Stanford University School of Medicine, caffeine was found to counteract inflammatory processes associated with aging and circulatory diseases. The findings revealed that caffeine-containing products may help protect against many conditions, including diabetes and memory decline.
The study, which followed more than 100 participants over several years, was published in Nature Medicine. It showed that caffeine has a direct positive impact on inflammation related to cardiovascular disease and aging. Researchers observed that individuals who consumed caffeine-containing beverages such as coffee and tea experienced significantly less inflammation compared to those who did not consume caffeine.
How Much Caffeine Do Drinks Contain?
For adults, moderate caffeine intake is considered to be between 300 and 400 mg per day. Looking at common beverages, the highest caffeine levels are found in large lattes and filtered coffee, while energy drinks and cola beverages contain comparatively less.