Green tea may reduce the risk of dementia if consumed in moderation — up to six cups a day, according to a study by scientists at Qingdao College in China, published in the journal Translational Psychiatry .
Aging is inevitable, but some factors can be controlled. The World Health Organization notes that more than 55 million people worldwide live with dementia, a disorder that causes memory loss and the need for constant care. The most common form (up to 70% of cases) is Alzheimer's disease.
Scientists have found that regular consumption of green tea can reduce the risk of developing cognitive impairment. Those who drank tea daily (from one to six cups) were 16% less likely to develop dementia. In particular, the risk of Alzheimer's disease was reduced by 16–19%, and vascular dementia by 25–29%.
The greatest protective effect was observed when drinking three cups of tea per day. This was the optimal amount - scientists talk about the so-called U-shaped relationship: excessive consumption (more than six cups) did not show additional benefits compared to completely giving up tea.
The study results indicate that dementia can be prevented through simple changes in daily diet. But doctors warn: tea is not a cure, but only one factor in reducing risks.
