Consuming caffeine has always been considered a stimulant from time immemorial. A recent study has confirmed that the analeptic property of caffeine is helpful in prevention and treatment of the dreaded disease.

This fact assumes much importance as almost 80% of Americans consume caffeine daily. The intake varies vastly from low (130mg) to heavy (6000mg). Caffeine is considered the most common stimulant drug all over the world.

A study conducted by the researchers at the University of South Florida found that a daily intake of 500mg of caffeine could reverse the mental deterioration in mice. 500mg of caffeine is obtained from five cups of coffee, 8-ounce each. The mice used for study were bred to develop Alzheimer’s disease. After two months of caffeine treatment, the mice equaled normal mice in memory tests. During the study, it was found that caffeine reduces abnormal levels of beta amyloid, a plaque-forming protein found in blood and brain.

The importance of the new study findings is that caffeine can be used to treat already developed Alzheimer’s disease and not as a preventive alone. This is immensely helpful, as caffeine is safe for most people and doesn’t seem to have any side effects.

The study contends that caffeine is not useful in boosting the memory of normal mice. It is helpful only for those with a tendency to develop any memory problems.

As caffeine is absorbed by the body within 30 minutes of ingestion and is completely expelled from the body in due course. Due to this, the accumulation of caffeine in the body is ruled out. Beverages like coffee, tea, cocoa, cola and energy drinks are the most common sources of caffeine.

Next step for researchers is to go in for human trials to verify these claims.

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