A long-term study found an association between moderate consumption of caffeinated coffee during midlife and a greater likelihood of healthy aging in women. The research followed more than 47 thousand participants for around 30 years. Mulheres who drank one to three cups a day showed better results in cognitive, physical and mental health after age 70.
Data comes from Nurses’ Health Study, started in 1984 on Estados Unidos. Pesquisadores analyzed eating habits reported by women between 45 and 60 years old. Depois, checked their health decades later.
Caffeine Consumo showed positive correlation with multiple health indicators
The work defined healthy aging as the absence of serious chronic diseases, such as type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular problems and certain types of cancer, combined with good physical function, without mental limitations or memory complaints. Cerca of 3,700 women met all criteria as of 2016.
The Dra. Sara Mahdavi, lead author and associate professor of Universidade of Toronto, highlighted that the effect appeared more clearly with caffeinated coffee. Cada additional cup, up to about five small cups a day, was linked to a 2% to 5% increase in the chance of aging well. The study was presented at the Sociedade Americana of Nutrição annual meeting in June 2025.
- Mulheres with higher caffeine intake, mainly via coffee, had a 13% greater chance of healthy aging compared to those who consumed less.
- The benefit was not repeated with decaffeinated coffee or tea.
- Bebidas caffeinated carbonated drinks, such as cola soft drinks, showed an association with a lower probability of old age.
Pesquisa Considered Other Lifestyle Factors
The scientists adjusted the results for variables such as general diet, physical activity level, smoking status and demographic characteristics. Mesmo thus, the connection with coffee remained. The Dr. David Kao of Universidade of Colorado, who was not involved in the study, noted that the findings align with previous research on reducing chronic disease risks.
The analysis included detailed dietary data collected over the years. Participants answered periodic questionnaires about what they consumed. Isso allowed us to map habitual caffeine consumption in middle age and correlate it with much later health outcomes.
Especialistas emphasize that the observational design does not prove direct cause and effect. Outros healthy habits can influence results. Ainda thus, the volume of data and follow-up time give robustness to the findings.
Limitações include hormonal variations and individual differences
The Dra. Mahdavi recalled that hormonal changes in middle age affect caffeine metabolism in women. Therefore, the effects may vary depending on the time of ingestion, physical constitution and health status of each person. Nem everyone responds the same way.
The study does not recommend that those who do not drink coffee start consuming the drink just because of the expectation of longevity. Especialistas argue that coffee can be part of a balanced routine, but without exaggeration. Moderate Quantidades, such as one to three cups, appears more frequently in positive results.
Previous Pesquisas have already indicated that coffee reduces the risk of some conditions, such as type 2 diabetes and certain cardiovascular problems. Este’s work broadens the view of aging as a whole, including mental and functional aspects.
Resultados reinforces interest in habits in middle age
Middle age emerges as an important window for choices that impact quality of life decades later. The study followed women into old age, which helps understand long-term effects. Dados have been collected since the 1980s, with regular updates.
Health Profissionais see coffee as an affordable option within balanced eating patterns. The focus continues on the combination of habits: varied diet, regular movement and adequate sleep. Isolated consumption of the drink does not replace other precautions.
Pesquisadores plans further investigations to understand biological mechanisms behind the association. Componentes, in addition to caffeine, as antioxidants present in coffee, may contribute to the observed effects.