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Caffeine and the risk of dementia

Learn about research into the link between drinks containing caffeine, such as tea and coffee, and the risk of developing dementia.

Can caffeine increase the risk of dementia?

There is no strong evidence to say that caffeine increases a person’s risk of developing dementia.

The effects of caffeine on the risk of developing dementia have been studied many times. These studies can attract quite a bit of media attention, but this can often overstate the impact of the research.

Some studies have shown that caffeine in coffee and tea may reduce dementia risk by a small amount, while other studies show no effect or a slightly increased risk. 

How to reduce the risk of dementia

A lifelong approach to good health is the best way to lower your risk of dementia.

There are some lifestyle behaviours with enough evidence to show that changing them will reduce your risk of dementia.

Reduce your risk of dementia

Further reading

People with dementia can have problems eating and drinking, but there are ways to help manage these.

Find out more

Learn how dementia affects sleep and how to help people with dementia to get better sleep.

Find out more

Find out if drinking tea and coffee is bad for your heart and how much caffeine is too much.

Find out more

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