A study published in BMJ Mental Health shows that moderate coffee consumption is associated with slower cell aging, especially in people with serious mental disorders such as dysentery and emotional disorders.
Research assessing the link between daily coffee intake and telomere length, a sign of cell aging, shows that drinking 3-4 cups a day is associated with telomere lengthening in the non-drinking group, showing that coffee can protect cells. Telomere is the DNA at the head of a chrome, protecting genetic material; as cells shrink, they reduce the ability to divide and age.
Why can coffee slow down cell aging?
According to Dr. Geetika Chopra, a comprehensive nutritionist (India), people with serious mental disorders often suffer from high oxidative stress, chronic inflammation, metabolic disorders and circadian rhythm, thereby accelerating cell aging.
Coffee does not prevent aging, but can slow down some biological aging mechanisms, says Dr. Chopra. Antioxidants in coffee, especially chlorogenic acid, help neutralize free radicals that damage DNA and cells.
In addition, coffee is also said to support body function, reduce inflammation and improve insulin sensitivity, contributing to maintaining a healthy aging process.
Coffee is not a treatment or anti-aging drug
Although the study has shown many positive results, Dr. Geetika Chopra also emphasized that coffee is not a treatment for mental illness and does not directly prevent aging.
Drinking coffee in moderation can support a healthy lifestyle, helping to reduce some factors related to cell damage and the aging process, especially in people at high risk. The effects of coffee are best when combined with a balanced diet, adequate sleep and reasonable stress management.
Benefits and risks of drinking coffee
According to experts, when consumed reasonably, coffee brings many health benefits:
Increase alertness and improve cognitive function
Providing a large amount of antioxidants to help fight inflammation and oxidative stress
Reduces the risk of type 2 diabetes and some neurodegenerative diseases
Supports liver health and may reduce the risk of some cardiovascular diseases
However, drinking too much coffee can cause side effects such as anxiety, rapid heartbeat, insomnia, heartburn or digestive discomfort. In some people who are sensitive to caffeine, coffee can also aggravate stress and endocrine disorders if consumed at the wrong time.
How to drink coffee to improve cell health?
Dr. Chopra recommends opting for black coffee, filtered coffee or light brewed coffee, without adding added sugar and cream. The best time to drink is mid-morning or early afternoon, avoid drinking on an empty stomach or too late in the day so as not to affect sleep.
In terms of dosage, 13 cups of coffee per day are considered safe and beneficial for most healthy adults. People who are sensitive to caffeine, pregnant women or people with sleep problems should limit their consumption.
