Daily Coffee Linked to Lower Stress and Better Mood

Summary

A 13-year study of 460,000 people found that drinking two to three cups of coffee daily was associated with lower risk of depression, anxiety, and stress-related disorders compared to non-drinkers. The benefit appears tied to coffee's antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds, which may support brain health, though excessive caffeine (five cups or more) showed diminishing returns.

Quick Facts

• Two to three cups daily showed the strongest protective effect against mood disorders
• Benefits came from caffeinated coffee only, not decaf
• The effect plateaued and reversed at five or more cups per day

Why It Matters

Identifies a simple, accessible habit linked to measurable mental health protection for middle-aged adults.