Scientists discovered: Many people's favorite morning habit is good for your mental health
Translated from Croatian, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.
At a glance
- Moderate coffee consumption may reduce the risk of depression and anxiety, according to a study of UK Biobank data.
- Drinking two to three cups of black coffee or coffee with milk (without sugar) daily was linked to improved mood and motivation.
- Excessive intake of four or more cups daily, however, was associated with poorer mental states and increased nervousness.
Good news for coffee lovers: a recent study suggests that enjoying coffee in moderation can significantly benefit mental health.
Coffee a day keeps the doctor away!
Research involving over 150,000 participants from the UK Biobank indicates that drinking two to three cups of coffee daily is associated with a lower risk of depression and anxiety. This finding is particularly encouraging for those who regularly consume multiple cups.
The study found that consuming two or three cups of black coffee or coffee with milk without sugar can significantly improve your mood and motivation, and reduce the risk of developing anxiety and depression.
The study found that individuals who regularly drank one or two cups of coffee reported fewer mental health issues. The benefits were linked to both black coffee and coffee with milk, provided it was consumed without sugar. This moderate consumption was associated with improved mood and motivation.
Contrary to these data, excessive intake of coffee of 4 or more cups is associated with a worse mental state and frequent feelings of nervousness.
However, the research also cautioned against excessive intake. Consuming four or more cups of coffee per day was linked to negative mental states, including increased nervousness. The study highlights that while moderate coffee consumption can be beneficial, overconsumption may have adverse effects. Caffeine acts as a stimulant, boosting mood-related hormones like dopamine, and coffee's anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties may also support brain function.
So, coffee positively affects your mood, and its anti-inflammatory properties and antioxidants support key brain processes.
Originally published by Veฤernji List in Croatian. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.