Caffeine May Ward Off Dementia Among Women

It may not be clear why caffeine helps to stop the onset of dementia, but researchers with the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute led by Doctor Ira Driscoll from the University of Wisconsin believe that consuming at least 264 milligrams of caffeine daily lowers the risk of dementia by 37 percent. The following article explains to Dayton, OH, dementia caregivers how researchers reached this conclusion.

Why Does Caffeine Work?

Scientists suggest that one possible explanation for this occurrence is the way caffeine affects the brain. When a person consumes a large amount of caffeine, the brain becomes starved for oxygen. It then releases a special hormone that keeps the brain from swelling. Scientists theorize that when the brain does not swell, there is a lower likelihood of plaque buildup that leads to dementia.

Are Scientists Sure?

While scientists have not tested caffeine on lab mice, they have tested a special protein that they believe works in the same way. They say that the protein causes the brain to release the same hormone.

Is There Another Explanation?

A second theory that scientists think may explain the results of the study is that when people consume large amounts of caffeine, the body naturally produces more white blood cells. Like the hormone, this stops the brain from swelling and reduces the likelihood of dementia. 

Are There Detrimental Effects of Caffeine?

While scientists are straightening it out in the lab, there appears to be very few detrimental effects from consuming 265 milligrams of caffeine. The Mayo Clinic has discovered that once people consume more than 500 milligrams then some people may start having reactions including rapid heartbeats, muscle tremors and trouble sleeping. Therefore, they recommend that women not consume excessive amounts of caffeine and that they only ingest it earlier in the day.

How Much Should Women Consume?

In order to get 264 milligrams of caffeine, people need to drink about 21 ounces of coffee, 45 ounces of black tea or 48 ounces of their favorite soda. Caffeine can also be found in other places like hot chocolate and almost every drink from your favorite coffee shop. It is also in energy drinks and in chocolate. Furthermore, it is also in many foods flavored with coffee. 
Should your loved one be diagnosed with dementia, turn to Home Care Assistance for help. We provide comprehensive Alzheimer’s and dementia in-home care Dayton, OH, families rely on to help seniors age in place with dignity. Call [hca_phone] today to talk to an expertly trained Care Manager and have him or her customize a care plan for your loved one.