Consuming a certain hot drink daily could help delay physical ageing and frailty, according to a new study. The findings suggest that people who drink coffee could avoid some of the unwanted symptoms that come with old age.

More specifically, it was revealed that habitual coffee consumption of four to six cups or more (with one cup measuring at 125ml) per day is associated with a reduced risk of frailty.

The study, funded by the Institute for Scientific Information on Coffee (ISIC) is the first to analyse the relationship between coffee consumption and the underlying components of frailty.

Previous studies have associated coffee drinking with a reduced risk of some natural ageing symptoms, such as enhanced cognitive function and protection against inflammation-related diseases.

This latest research, published in the European Journal of Nutrition, contributes to the expanding knowledge in this field, investigating the benefits of consistent coffee consumption over an extended duration.

For this particular study, researchers carried out an in-depth analysis over a lengthy seven-year follow-up period, surveying 1,161 adults aged 55 and over through the Longitudinal Ageing Study Amsterdam (LASA). The study explored the connection between coffee intake and the presence and incidence of frailty.

Frailty status was assessed using Fried’s five-component frailty phenotype, which is characterised by the presence of three or more of the following symptoms: weight loss, weakness, exhaustion, slow gait (walking) speed, and low physical activity. The findings of this study suggest that higher habitual coffee consumption is linked to lower overall odds of frailty. 

Researchers suggest that one reason coffee may reduce frailty is the antioxidants found in the drink. These antioxidants can lessen inflammation, combat muscle loss (sarcopenia), and help prevent muscle damage. 

Additionally, coffee could aid in enhancing insulin sensitivity and glucose absorption in the elderly. Lead study author Margreet R Olthof, from the Amsterdam Public Health Research Institute, said in a release: “Drinking coffee is a key part of many people’s daily routine, and as people age they are constantly looking for ways to maintain their health.

“Our findings highlight the possible beneficial association between daily coffee consumption and reduced risk of frailty in later life in the older population. Coffee consumption may thus enhance healthy ageing, but it is important we also explore further dietary interventions, to ensure older adults can continue to live fulfilling lives.”

These results can be considered in conjunction with the European Food Safety Authority’s (EFSA) guidelines on caffeine consumption. According to the EFSA’s scientific opinion, sipping on up to 400mg of caffeine (equivalent to three to five cups of coffee) daily is considered a moderate and safe quantity.

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However, certain people, including those who are highly sensitive to caffeine and those with high blood pressure, should limit their intake of coffee. The NHS also recommends limiting caffeine intake if you are pregnant.

For pregnant women, it suggests no more than 200mg of caffeine per day, which is roughly equivalent to two cups of coffee.