Dr. Jim Surrell, Journal columnist

Scientific research has shown that older adults consuming drinks with caffeine have less risk for Alzheimer’s disease.

This expert research on caffeine and Alzheimer’s disease is from the University of South Florida and the University of Miami, as previously reported in the Journal of Alzheimer’s disease.

Here are two quotes from the authors. “These intriguing results suggest that older adults with mild memory impairment who drink moderate levels of coffee, about 3 cups a day, will not convert to Alzheimer’s disease, or at least will experience a substantial delay before converting to Alzheimer’s.”

This was reported by the lead author of this study, Dr. Chuanhai Cao. “Moderate daily consumption of caffeinated coffee appears to be the best dietary option for long-term protection against Alzheimer’s memory loss,” as was reported by an additional author of this study, Dr. Arendash.

About 90% of the people in North America drink caffeine on a daily basis, mostly from coffee, tea, soft drinks, and the now very popular so-called “energy drinks.”

Caffeine comes from coffee beans, tea leaves, kola nuts and from cocoa beans, the source of chocolate. Personally, I drink coffee and diet soft drinks with caffeine every day, but not in the evening, as caffeine later in the day tends to keep me awake at night.

For people who find that caffeine does interfere with their sleep, it is recommended that you do not have any caffeine for at least four to six hours prior to your planned bedtime.

The most common positive effect of caffeine is that it serves as a central nervous system stimulant and increases your metabolic rate. Therefore, it is used by many people to reduce physical fatigue and increase alertness.

Caffeine has clearly been proven to make one feel more awake, with increased focus and attention span, and gives you a more clear flow of thought. It has also been shown to improve body coordination.

Multiple studies also show that caffeine may decrease the risk of several types of cancer. Caffeine has been associated with a lower risk for cancer of the liver, uterus, and colorectal cancer. Further, caffeine may also decrease the risk for kidney stones, gallstones, liver disease, and type 2 diabetes. Excess caffeine can raise blood pressure and heart rate, but studies do not show a link to heart disease with moderate coffee intake of about 3 to 4 cups per day.

Studies now show that caffeine, if not taken to excess, is good for many people. However, if you are on a caffeine restriction from your health care provider, discuss this matter with your health care provider before increasing your caffeine intake.

Also, monitor how you react to caffeine, and base your personal caffeine intake on what side effects you may experience, and then determine what would be a healthy daily amount for you. Excuse me, but I have to wrap this up now, and go get another cup of coffee.

EDITOR’S NOTE: Dr. Jim Surrell is the author of the best-selling SOS (Stop Only Sugar) Diet book and his new Joke Book, entitled “Laughter Is Good Medicine.” Dr. Jim’s website is sosdietbook.com.