The Effect of Coffee on Brain Health

Pour-over, solo, drip, French-pressed—however you enjoy your coffee, it may do more than just help you get going in the morning. Research suggests that drinking coffee may protect against a variety of health conditions, as long as it’s consumed in moderation.

For decades, coffee had a poor reputation due to early studies that labeled it a carcinogen and linked it to an increased risk of heart disease. But recent research shows that drinking coffee, including decaffeinated coffee, may provide a variety of health benefits when enjoyed in moderation.

Why Coffee Matters for Your Brain

Some of coffee’s health benefits are commonly known, including that it boosts metabolism and increases energy levels. But coffee may also deliver lesser-known, but potentially more important advantages for the brain. These include:

• Enhancing brain function
• Lowering the risk of developing dementia and Alzheimer’s disease
• Decreasing the risk of stroke and depression.

Beyond brain health, moderate coffee consumption has been linked to reduced risk of some cancers, type 2 diabetes, and heart disease.

How Caffeine Enhances Focus and Alertness

Caffeine is just one of about 1,000 chemicals found in coffee beans, but it is the best known. As a stimulant, caffeine delivers a boost of energy and helps provide focus. It locks into the adenosine receptors in the brain, which cause drowsiness, and counteracts the sleepiness response by blocking the function of the receptors. Instead of feeling drowsy, caffeine stimulates the brain’s production of norepinephrine and dopamine, which is what leads to increased focus and alertness.

Beyond Caffeine: Antioxidants and Polyphenols

But caffeine isn’t the only beneficial component. Coffee also contains beneficial polyphenols and antioxidants, which fight inflammation and protect against some diseases.

Polyphenols are organic compounds with anti-inflammatory properties that have the potential to prevent or reduce the risk of certain cancers and other chronic health conditions. Some polyphenols may protect against neurodegenerative diseases, including Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s, and Huntington’s. Additionally, polyphenols may also help regulate metabolism, weight, and cellular function.

Other beneficial components in coffee include:

• Vitamins B1 (thiamine), B2 (riboflavin), B3 (niacin) and B5 (pantothenic acid)
• Folate
• Manganese
• Potassium
• Magnesium
• Phosphorus.

Coffee beans may also support gut health by offering prebiotic and probiotic properties once ground and brewed.

Coffee’s Impact on Memory and Dementia Risk

While coffee has many health benefits, it can also have some negative effects. For example, it can:

• Disrupt sleep
• Cause anxiety or agitation
• Lead to caffeine dependence
• Trigger withdrawal symptoms (headache, fatigue, brain fog, and irritability) when abstaining

Moderating consumption is key to enjoying its benefits.

Balancing the Benefits: Moderation

Like most things in nutrition, balance matters. Coffee is a healthy beverage when consumed in moderation. The Dietary Guidelines for Americans recommends no more than about 400 mg of caffeine, or about 2-3 12-ounce cups. Too much, especially in the afternoon or evening, can interfere with sleep quality and may create feelings of anxiety.

Brewing Smart: How to Maximize Health Benefits

While coffee has many health benefits, its value can be undermined by added sugars, creamers, or flavored syrups.

“The extra calories, sugar, and saturated fat in a coffee house beverage loaded with whipped cream and flavored syrup might offset any health benefits found in a basic black coffee.” – Harvard School of Public Health

Brewing methods also matter when it comes to your health.  Using a paper filter or selecting coffee pods with built-in filters helps prevent the passage of unhealthy chemicals present in your brew. Some of these chemicals can raise levels of LDL, also known as the “bad” cholesterol.

Support Brain Health With Personalized Nutrition

A daily cup of coffee may support brain function, but it’s just one small part of a much bigger picture. At Aviv Clinics, we take a comprehensive, science-backed approach to brain health and performance. Our personalized treatment plans address cognitive and physical health with a cutting-edge hyperbaric oxygen therapy that can be combined with other evidence-based therapies. These include cognitive training, nutritional guidance, and physical performance coaching to help optimize both your mind and body.

Whether you’re experiencing early signs of cognitive decline or simply want to stay sharp as you age, our team of clinical professionals is here to help.

Discover how the Aviv Medical Program can support your brain health goals—today and in the years to come. Contact us to learn more.

Last Update: July 11, 2025