Can Coffee Boost Your Long-Term Memory? 

 

Lots of Americans cannot start the day without their morning cup of coffee. The stimulant effect of caffeine on the brain has long been clear, as any sleep deprived college student can attest. However, two recent studies suggest that caffeine may also benefit long-term memory.

Caffeine Seems to Benefit Memory Recall

A study published in Nature Neuroscience indicates that taking caffeine pills enhances long-term recall of previously presented images. The participants in the study were shown photos and asked to classify them as “indoor” or “outdoor.” Afterwards, half of the participants took a caffeine pill, while the others took a placebo. The next day, they were shown the same pictures — plus some that were previously unseen. Both groups could distinguish between the new and old images, but those who took caffeine pills better determined the images similar to those in the first round.

Caffeine, Diet and Alcohol’s Effect on Memory

A subsequent study conducted by the National Institute on Aging tested the effects of caffeine, alcohol and nutrition on thinking skills. They discovered that the caffeine found in coffee might benefit long-term thinking skills. They also found evidence that one alcoholic drink might boost mental performance and that those on a healthy diet also had higher memory test scores. The line between how much caffeine and alcohol is beneficial or harmful is uncertain.

How Caffeine Works on Your Brain

Caffeine tricks your brain by blocking adenosine receptors. Adenosine is a brain chemical that normally prevents the release of certain brain chemicals that cause excitability. By blocking adenosine, caffeine allows these chemicals free reign, which gives you an energy surge.

The jury is still out regarding the level benefit caffeine provides to long-term memory, but current evidence shows that there is some correlation between moderate consumption and memory. While some studies show enhanced memory with caffeine consumption, other earlier studies showed no correlation. Still, a cup or two of coffee seems to have no detrimental physical effects for most people, so enjoy your morning java without guilt.

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