Regular coffee consumption may help slow biological aging in individuals with serious mental illnesses
A recent study published in BMJ Mental Health suggests that daily coffee consumption may slow biological aging in people with severe mental illnesses such as schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, and psychosis,according to Medical News. Researchers found that drinking 3–4 cups of coffee per day was associated with longer telomeres—protective caps at the ends of chromosomes that indicate cellular aging—effectively giving participants the biological equivalent of five extra years compared with non-coffee drinkers. This benefit was not observed in participants consuming five or more cups daily, which aligns with international guidelines recommending a maximum daily intake of four cups (400 mg of caffeine) to avoid potential health risks.
The study analyzed 436 adults from the Norwegian Thematically Organized Psychosis (TOP) study, recruited between 2007 and 2018. Among them, 259 had schizophrenia, while the remaining 177 had affective disorders, including bipolar disorder and major depressive disorder with psychotic features. Participants were grouped based on coffee consumption: none, 1–2 cups, 3–4 cups, and 5 or more cups per day. Researchers also accounted for smoking habits, as tobacco use affects caffeine metabolism. Most participants (77%) were smokers, with higher consumption in the 5+ cups group, who were also older on average.
Telomere length was measured from white blood cells. Results showed a J-shaped relationship: moderate coffee consumption correlated with longer telomeres, while excessive intake did not provide benefits. After adjusting for age, sex, ethnicity, smoking, psychiatric diagnosis, and medication, those consuming four cups daily had telomere lengths consistent with a biological age five years younger than non-coffee drinkers.
While the study is observational and cannot establish causation, researchers suggest plausible biological mechanisms. Coffee contains powerful antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds that may protect telomeres from oxidative stress and inflammation, both of which accelerate cellular aging. These protective effects could be particularly important for individuals with major mental illnesses, who often experience accelerated biological aging.
Despite its potential advantages, exceeding recommended daily coffee intake may increase cellular stress and telomere shortening due to the formation of reactive oxygen species. The study highlights coffee’s global popularity, with over 10 billion kilograms consumed worldwide in 2021–2022, emphasizing both its cultural significance and potential health impact.
