by Katriena Knights

Created on: February 05, 2009   Last Updated: February 06, 2009

It's been a common belief for many years that coffee isn't particularly good for you. How many mothers have told their kids that drinking coffee will stunt their growth? But recent studies are uncovering more and more evidence that coffee contains a variety of nutrients that can actually help fight aging, particularly the effects of age-related dementia, Parkinson's, and Alzheimer's Disease. This is good news for those of us who don't want to give up our coffee.

The main ingredients in coffee that can help fight the effects of aging are flavonoids. Flavonoids are a powerful antioxidant found not only in coffee but in red wine, grapes, and other foods that have been shown to be powerful weapons in the fight against heart disease, cholesterol, and even cancer. Antioxidants help prevent cellular damage by counteracting the process of oxidation that causes cells to break down. Essentially, they stop the cells from "rusting." Coffee also contains a healthy dose of micronutrients that help keep brain cells in optimum condition.

Studies in Sweden and Denmark have shown that subjects who drank three to five cups of coffee per day were significantly less likely to develop age-related dementia or Alzheimer's than those who had only one or two, or no coffee at all.

Drinking coffee has also been linked to lower risk of Parkinson's disease and diabetes. Scientists aren't sure what ingredients in coffee caused this protective effect, but theorize it has to do with coffee's strong antioxidant properties. The antioxidants in coffee, they think, might protect the entire vascular system from damage caused by aging, thus also keeping the brain healthier by keeping circulation freely flowing to this vital organ.

In spite of its bad reputation, caffeine might play a role in maintaining brain health, as well. Other studies have shown that caffeine can prevent the formation of amyloid plaques in the brain, which are a distinguishing symptom of Alzheimer's. Caffeine also increases the ability to focus and concentrate, sharpening overall mental function and improving mental clarity.

To reap the best benefits of coffee's antioxidants, however, you'll have to pass on the high-fat creamers and large quantities of sugar. A single shot of espresso can give you a powerful nutritional punch, but a sugary latte won't help quite as much, and will add unnecessary calories to your diet. So enjoy your coffee wisely and without guilt, knowing it can help you stay alert and mentally healthy for years to come.

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