Daily Green Tea Consumption May Support Brain Health in Older Adults, Study Finds

Tokyo, January 15 (ONA): A new study from Kanazawa University suggests that drinking green tea regularly may have neuroprotective benefits, potentially reducing brain changes linked to cognitive decline and dementia.

The research, conducted by the university’s Graduate School of Medical Sciences, analyzed the effects of green tea and coffee consumption on brain structure in older adults who do not have dementia. The study found that individuals who drank at least three cups of green tea per day had fewer cerebral white matter lesions—a condition associated with aging, cognitive impairment, and an increased risk of Alzheimer’s disease.

Insights from the Research

The study was part of the Japan Prospective Studies Collaboration for Ageing and Dementia, which used MRI imaging to examine the impact of beverages like green tea and coffee on brain health. Researchers focused on factors such as white matter lesions, hippocampal volume, and total brain size, which are key indicators of cognitive aging.

While both green tea and coffee have long been praised for their antioxidant and neuroprotective properties, the study found no significant association between coffee consumption and brain health benefits. In contrast, green tea appeared to play a protective role in maintaining brain function.

Green Tea and Dementia Prevention

The findings, published in npj Science of Food, suggest that regular green tea consumption could be an accessible and natural way to promote cognitive health. Even after adjusting for lifestyle factors, the study maintained a strong link between green tea intake and reduced white matter lesions.

“Our research indicates that drinking three or more cups of green tea daily may help prevent dementia and support brain health as people age,” the study’s authors stated. However, they emphasized that further long-term studies are needed to confirm these benefits and understand the underlying mechanisms.

Conclusion

As the global population continues to age, simple lifestyle changes—such as incorporating green tea into a daily routine—could serve as a preventive measure against cognitive decline. While more research is required, this study provides promising evidence that green tea could play a role in healthy brain aging.

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