☕ Study reveals that at this specific consumption level, coffee may slow down aging

Researchers published in the journal BMJ Mental Health a study indicating that consuming 3 to 4 cups of coffee per day is associated with longer telomeres. Shortened telomeres are markers of biological aging. This moderate habit could correspond to approximately 5 additional years of cellular youth compared to non-coffee drinkers.

Telomeres are located at the ends of chromosomes and protect DNA, somewhat like the tips of a shoelace. Their shortening is a natural process related to age, but it seems accelerated in individuals with conditions like schizophrenia or bipolar disorders. This discovery opens new perspectives on environmental factors influencing cellular health (to learn more, see below).


The analysis focused on 436 Norwegian adults participating in a study on psychoses. Participants were classified according to their daily coffee consumption: none, 1-2 cups, 3-4 cups, or 5 cups and more. Telomere length measurements were performed from blood samples, taking into account variables like age and smoking.

Results show a relationship, with the longest telomeres observed in the group consuming 3 to 4 cups. Beyond this amount, the beneficial effect disappears, highlighting the importance of moderation. This limit aligns with health authorities' recommendations for safe caffeine consumption.

The antioxidant and anti-inflammatory compounds in coffee could explain these observations (details are available at the end of the article). Telomeres are sensitive to oxidative stress and inflammation, making coffee an interesting candidate for preserving cellular youth. However, excessive consumption could have the opposite effect.

Although promising, these results come from an observational study and do not yet prove a cause-and-effect link. Unrecorded factors, such as the type of coffee or consumption of other caffeinated beverages, could influence the conclusions. Future research will need to explore these aspects to confirm potential benefits.

Telomeres: guardians of our biological clock

Telomeres are repetitive DNA structures located at the ends of chromosomes. Their main function is to protect genes during cell division, preventing the loss of genetic information. With each division, telomeres shorten slightly, serving as a countdown for the cell.

When telomeres become too short, the cell stops dividing and enters senescence or apoptosis. This process is a major cause of cellular aging and is associated with various age-related diseases. Telomere length is therefore an important biological marker for assessing health status.

Environmental factors such as stress, diet, and lifestyle habits can influence the rate of telomere shortening. For example, a diet rich in antioxidants can help preserve them. In the context of mental disorders, where oxidative stress is often increased, maintaining long telomeres could be beneficial.

Research on telomeres opens avenues for understanding aging and developing interventions. Studies like the one on coffee show how simple lifestyle modifications could slow cellular decline, offering hope for improving quality of life.

Coffee compounds and their effects on cellular health

Coffee is rich in several bioactive compounds, notably polyphenols like chlorogenic acids. These substances possess antioxidant properties, capable of neutralizing free radicals that damage cells. By reducing oxidative stress, they help protect DNA and cellular structures.

Chronic inflammation is a risk factor for many diseases, including neuropsychiatric disorders. Coffee compounds also have anti-inflammatory effects, modulating the signaling pathways involved in the immune response. This can help reduce cellular damage associated with inflammation.

In the case of telomeres, their integrity is threatened by oxidative stress and inflammation. By acting on these two fronts, coffee could slow their shortening. However, the dose is essential: moderate consumption provides benefits, while excess can increase oxidative stress.

Beyond telomeres, coffee has been linked to other health benefits, such as a reduced risk of certain neurodegenerative diseases. These effects are often dose-dependent and differ among individuals. Understanding the precise mechanisms allows optimizing consumption to maximize benefits.