Caffeine is a drug found in tea, coffee, caffeinated drinks and chocolate. It improves energy and alertness by blocking adenosine, a brain chemical that causes drowsiness, from attaching to nerve receptors. In addition, caffeine has been associated with reducing the risk for type 2 diabetes and Parkinson's disease. Research also indicates that caffeine might also protect the brain from memory loss.
Protect Memory in Women
Researchers from the University of Paris in France investigated the impact of caffeine intake on cognitive decline and dementia on subjects aged 65 years and older. They discovered that women, but not men, who drank three cups of coffee per day had less decline over time on memory tests compared to women who drank one cup or less of coffee. Scientists reported their findings in the August 2007 issue of the journal "Neurology."
Memory Tests
In research reported in the June 2009 issue of the journal "Psychological Reports," scientists from Hamline University in Minnesota studied the impact of caffeine consumption on memory tests in college students. Participants consumed 200 mg of caffeine or a 250 mg lactose placebo, and 30 minutes after were tested on recall using six words. Researchers found that the caffeine group recalled more words on the list compared to the placebo group.
Gamma Rhythms
Scientists from the University of Birmingham explored the impact of caffeine on brain activity in mice brains. They discovered that caffeine can increase the production of gamma rhythms, nerve cells in the brain, by more than three times its normal level, which can benefit cognitive performance and enhance memory in the elderly, according to the Nutra-Ingredients website.
Side Effects
Although caffeine might enhance memory, high intakes of caffeine, defined as more than 500 to 600 mg of caffeine, may cause side effects, including irregular heartbeat, insomnia, anxiety and headaches. If you are experiencing any of these side effects, cut back caffeine intake to 200 to 300 mg of caffeine, according to MayoClinic.com.
