Consuming two to three cups of coffee per day is associated with a lower risk of anxiety and depression. Pesquisadores from Universidade from Fudan, from China, reached this conclusion after analyzing data from more than 461 thousand people. The study followed participants for an average of 13.4 years. Todos They started the period in good mental health. In the end, more than 18 thousand new cases of mood and stress disorders were identified.
The results revealed a J-shaped curve. The risk was lowest with moderate consumption of about two to three 250 ml cups per day. Pessoas Those who drank very little or large amounts had a higher risk. The pattern was repeated for both anxiety and depression. The protective effect appeared stronger in men than in women.
Curve-shaped association
The team examined drinking habits reported by participants at the beginning of the follow-up. Eles also monitored the emergence of new diagnoses over time. Moderate consumption showed the lowest point on the risk curve. Quem drinking five or more cups per day was associated with an increased risk of mood disorders. Diferenças Genetics in caffeine metabolism did not significantly alter the findings.
- Two to three cups per day: lowest risk observed
- Zero or very low consumption: higher risk
- Five or more cups: association with increased risk
- More pronounced effect in men
- Similar results for different types of coffee such as ground, with milk or without sugar
The researchers used data from UK Biobank, one of the largest medical information banks in the world. Eles adjusted the calculations for factors such as age, education and physical activity. The publication took place in the magazine Journal of Affective Disorders. The analysis included more than 18 thousand new cases registered during the period.
Possible mechanisms behind the benefits
Caffeine blocks adenosine, a substance that signals fatigue in the brain. In moderate doses, it can stimulate dopamine, linked to pleasure and motivation. Níveis Low dopamine is often related to fatigue and bad mood. The study does not establish a direct cause, but points to a consistent association. Outros Coffee compounds can also influence well-being.
Experts note that coffee is part of affordable everyday choices. Médicos They can discuss these habits with patients as a complement to other care. Sensitivity to caffeine varies between people. Alguns report nervousness or palpitations even with moderate amounts. The study reinforces the importance of individual balance.
Differences by sex and genetics
The protective effect against mood disorders appeared stronger among men. The researchers tested polygenic risk scores to assess caffeine metabolism. Participantes with fast or slow metabolization showed similar results. Isso suggests that the benefit does not just depend on how the body processes the substance. Mulheres also had a positive association, although to a lesser extent.
Long follow-up allowed us to observe real outcomes over more than a decade. Poucos Previous studies have gathered such a large volume of data over an extended period. The research focused on long-term prevention in initially healthy adults. Ela does not replace medical treatments for those who already have a diagnosis.
Limitations and recommendations
Consumption data were self-reported at baseline. Mudanças in habits over the years were not captured in all cases. UK Biobank includes mostly participants from Reino Unido, which may limit generalizability to other populations. Fatores of unmeasured lifestyle could influence part of the results.
Researchers highlight that coffee is not an isolated solution to mental health problems. Ele You can integrate a set of healthy habits. Indivíduos Sensitively they should observe personal reactions. Consultas Doctors remain essential for individual assessment. The finding paves the way for more investigations into nutrition and prevention.
Implications for public health
Mental disorders affect millions of people around the world. Opções Simple and accessible become relevant in discussions about prevention. The study contributes to the debate by pointing out an association with a common habit. Ele encourages closer looks at daily choices in addition to medications and therapies.
Doctors can use the results in routine conversations. The focus remains on moderation. Duas Three cups emerge as a balance point in the analysis. Consumo Excessive did not bring the same benefits. The research reinforces the need for more studies on diverse groups.