Posted by linkadge on February 20, 2015, at 21:17:34
In reply to coffee illusion - sounds familiar ?, posted by stan_the_man70 on February 20, 2015, at 4:57:09
While this argument makes sense logically, it is overly simplistic and not supported by current research. While it is true, that your brain might adapt to the adenosine blocking effects of caffeine (in terms of dopamine release), caffeine is actually neuroprotective and can raise the activity of brain growth factors like BDNF (even after long term administration). Also, coffee is far more than simply caffeine. It contains other antioxidants, polyphenols and plant based compounds (such as caffeic acid, beta carbolines) which can improve brain function both after short, and long term administration.
Several studies have been done to investigate the impact of coffee and tea intake on cognitive function over long term administration. Coffee has been shown in some studies to preserve cognitive function, reduce Parkinson's disease, reduce the risk of depression and suicide lower the risk of type II diabetes (also linked to cognitive decline) improve blood lipid profiles, and reduce the risk of certain cancers.
While I agree, that some of the benefits of coffee (esp. caffeine) as a stimulant, may diminish over time, other brain benefits appear to continue and even strengthen, depending on the duration and level of coffee consumption.
Linkadge
poster:linkadge
thread:1076926
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/20150129/msgs/1076947.html