Coffee is one of the most loved morning beverages, as it gives the much-needed boost to kick-start the day. It undoubtedly has many benefits, but only when consumed in the right amount. Many of us rely on it to wake up, stay alert, or feel energised, but a new study now suggests an additional advantage, one that could matter significantly for people living with serious mental illnesses.
Coffee linked to slower ageing in people with mental illness
Researchers from King’s College London have found that drinking up to four cups of coffee a day may help people with conditions like schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, and psychotic depression live healthier and potentially longer lives. The findings come from a study that looked at telomeres, which are protective caps at the ends of chromosomes. Telomeres act as indicators of how cells age, and shorter telomeres are linked to faster biological ageing.
Study findings show strong benefits in moderation
The study examined nearly 500 adults and observed that those who consumed three to four cups of coffee daily had telomeres similar to someone about five years younger than non-coffee drinkers. This means their cells appeared to be ageing more slowly.
The study, published in the journal BMJ Mental Health, found no benefits for people who drank more than four cups of coffee a day. In fact, drinking too much was linked to more stress on the cells. This supports advice from the US FDA, which says people should limit their caffeine intake to about 400 milligrams a day, roughly four cups of coffee.
Why coffee may help slow biological ageing
Dr Vid Mlakar, the study’s lead author, explained that although coffee is known to influence biological ageing in the general population, its impact on people with severe mental illnesses had not been closely studied. This group often has a shorter lifespan and develops age-related diseases earlier.
Experts say this is because telomeres shorten faster in conditions like schizophrenia and bipolar disorder. They are highly sensitive to oxidative stress and inflammation, which leads to accelerated ageing. Researchers believe coffee’s antioxidant and anti-inflammatory compounds help protect these telomeres, slowing down the damage.
Dr Monica Aas, a research fellow at King’s College London, added that while excessive coffee can harm sleep and overall health, moderate consumption appears to be beneficial for biological ageing.
Risks of excessive caffeine consumption
While having coffee in moderation may be helpful, too much caffeine can cause several side effects. These can include restlessness, anxiety, trouble sleeping, stomach problems, a faster heartbeat, headaches, and muscle shakes. In rare but serious cases, a caffeine overdose can lead to confusion, nausea, or even seizures.
In rare but severe cases, caffeine overdose can lead to confusion, nausea, or seizures. It can also cause heart palpitations, temporary spikes in blood pressure, and frequent urination.
Hence, it is important to listen to your body and keep intake within safe limits, as while coffee can offer certain health advantages, it is not a replacement for medical treatment.
Disclaimer: Always consult a doctor before starting any diet or fitness routine. Always seek the advice of your doctor with any questions about a medical condition.