A landmark study from Fudan University analyzed data from over 460,000 individuals, tracking mental health outcomes over 13.4 years. The findings reveal that drinking two to three cups of coffee daily is associated with the lowest risk of mood and stress disorders.
The J-shaped relationship held true across ground, instant, and decaffeinated coffee-indicating benefits beyond caffeine. Men showed stronger protective effects than women.
Researchers accounted for age, education, exercise, and health conditions. While genetics related to caffeine metabolism didn’t alter results, bioactive compounds in coffee may reduce brain inflammation and support mood regulation.
The study doesn’t prove causation but offers strong evidence that moderate coffee intake could be a simple, accessible strategy in mental wellness.
The research was published in the Journal of Affective Disorders.