Drinking coffee ‘may help treat Alzheimer’s’

Drinking a few cups of coffee every day could help treat people suffering from Alzheimer’s disease, scientists have said.

Research carried out on mice suggests caffeine impedes the production of protein plaques, a signature of the condition.

During the study, caffeine was given to mice genetically engineered to develop symptoms relating to.

Scientists recorded a 50 per cent reduction in levels of beta amyloid protein in their brains, with the mice showing improved memories and quicker thinking.

US neuroscientist Dr Gary Arendash, who led the research, said: “The new findings provide evidence that caffeine could be a viable ‘treatment’ for established Alzheimer’s disease and not simply a protective strategy.

People with high blood pressure and pregnant women should also continue to only drink a reduced amount of coffee, health experts warn.

Rebecca Wood, chief executive of the Alzheimer’s Research Trust, said: “In this study on mice with symptoms of Alzheimer’s, researchers found that caffeine boosted their memory. We need to do more research to find out whether this effect will be seen in people.”