According to a new study, a daily intake of coffee may have the potential to slow down physical ageing and reduce the risk of frailty. The research findings indicate that individuals who regularly consume coffee could potentially delay the onset of unwanted symptoms associated with ageing.
The study, funded by the Institute for Scientific Information on Coffee (ISIC), is the first to examine the correlation between coffee intake and the fundamental aspects of frailty. It revealed that habitual consumption of four to six cups of coffee per day, with each cup measuring 125ml, is associated with a decreased risk of frailty.
Previous studies have linked coffee consumption to a reduced risk of natural ageing symptoms, such as improved cognitive function and protection against inflammation-related diseases. This latest research, published in the European Journal of Nutrition, contributes to the growing body of knowledge in this area, exploring the benefits of regular coffee consumption over an extended period.
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The study involved an extensive analysis over a seven-year follow-up period, surveying 1,161 adults aged 55 and above through the Longitudinal Ageing Study Amsterdam (LASA). It aimed to investigate the relationship between coffee consumption and the presence and incidence of frailty.
Researchers used the five-component frailty phenotype developed by Fried to evaluate frailty, which identifies individuals with three or more symptoms including weight loss, weakness, exhaustion, slow walking speed, and low physical activity. The results indicate that higher regular coffee consumption is associated with lower overall frailty risks.
The potential for coffee to reduce frailty is thought to lie in the drink’s antioxidants, which can mitigate inflammation, prevent muscle loss, and protect against muscle damage. Additionally, coffee may play a role in improving insulin sensitivity and glucose absorption in older adults.
The lead author of the study, Margreet R Olthof, highlighted the importance of exploring further dietary interventions for older adults to maintain their health.
These findings may indicate a possible link between increased coffee consumption and reduced overall frailty risk. However, individuals need to consider caffeine consumption guidelines, particularly those who are highly sensitive to caffeine or have specific health conditions.
The European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) recommends a moderate and safe caffeine consumption of up to 400mg daily, equivalent to three to five cups of coffee. Certain groups, such as pregnant women and individuals with high blood pressure, are advised to limit their coffee intake based on medical guidelines.