19 January 2024 , 11:16
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Alzheimer's disease is the most common cause of dementia - which currently affects around 900,000 people in the UK.
The progressive condition, which still isn't fully understood by experts, affects one's cognitive abilities. But symptoms such as confusion, memory loss, problems with speech, personality changes and even hallucinations may not present themselves until the disease has developed over many years.
Age, family history, untreated depression and lifestyle factors such as smoking and being overweight are all thought to increase the risk of Alzheimer's disease - which is most common in those over 65. However, doctors say a daily drink could slash your risk, as well as decrease the chances of developing conditions such as heart disease.
According to Harvard Health, drinking coffee or green tea is linked with a slew of benefits - including lower inflammation levels, improved cardiovascular health, and a reduced risk of developing 'chronic disease'. It says 'chronic states of inflammation' can lead to issues including Alzheimer's and heart disease.
In 2020, the BMJ published a comprehensive study into Japanese people with type 2 diabetes, as those with the condition are more prone to being diagnosed with dementia. Researchers found drinking up to one cup of green tea every day was associated with 15 per cent lower odds of death, while drinking two-three cups was associated with 27 per cent lower odds.
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For coffee drinkers, consuming up to one daily cup was associated with 12 per cent lower odds. Two or more cups saw a 41 per cent lower risk, Wales Online reports.
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Pharmacist and nutritionist Aidan Goggins said our beloved cups of coffee 'actively combats inflammation'. He added: "Rich in bioactive ingredients, coffee has been shown to neutralise free radicals and diminish inflammation.
"Interestingly, caffeine itself plays a role by exerting antioxidant effects that lower inflammatory markers." For those who no longer need an excuse to indulge in the caffeinated beverage, budget supermarket Aldi sells a jar of instant coffee for just £1.