Drinking coffee might do more than just wake you up—it could also help protect your brain from dementia, even if you have a common heart condition, according to a new study by researchers at University Hospital Zürich, Switzerland.
The study, which followed 2,413 participants with atrial fibrillation (AF), found that consuming up to five cups of coffee daily was associated with better cognitive performance and reduced markers of inflammation.
‘Atrial fibrillation,’ a condition that causes an irregular or abnormally fast heart rate, affects approximately 1.5 million people in the UK and is linked to a higher risk of cognitive decline and dementia.
Coffee and cognitive health
Participants underwent cognitive tests measuring memory, attention, and processing speed. Results showed that higher coffee consumption improved cognitive test scores, with coffee drinkers scoring 11% higher on processing speed and attention compared to non-coffee drinkers.
Additionally, their cognitive age was calculated to be 6.7 years younger than those who drank less coffee.
Regular coffee consumption has well-documented cognitive benefits, said Prof. Jürg H. Beer, senior author of the study. Our findings suggest that it may also help offset cognitive risks associated with atrial fibrillation.
Inflammatory markers, often linked to Alzheimer’s disease and AF, were also found to be 20% lower in participants consuming five cups of coffee daily compared to those who drank less than one cup.
No need to quit coffee
Despite myths about caffeine being harmful to heart patients, the study supports moderate coffee consumption for those with AF. Coffee does not worsen AFib and might even benefit cognitive health, said Prof. Beer.
Limitations and future research
However, the study’s authors caution that these findings do not prove coffee prevents long-term cognitive decline. The research only measured coffee consumption and cognitive ability at a single point in time, requiring longer follow-ups to assess changes over the years.
In the meantime, experts encourage those with AF to enjoy their coffee without fear. As Prof. Beer puts it: Enjoy your coffee—it might even be good for you!
