Coffee contains caffeine and some compounds such as EHT and phenylindans, which prevent the development of dementia and Parkinson's disease.
Researchers are doing research to find out what compounds in coffee can prevent conditions such as dementia and Parkinson's disease . Most studies have focused on caffeine and some of the compounds in coffee. One of them, called Eicosanoyl-5-hydroxytryptamide (EHT ), has been found to have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Research has also been done and the results show that there is a synergy between the two components that protect the brain from biochemical and molecular changes.
The latest study aims to find out whether the combination of caffeine and this compound leads to better brain protection than each element alone. However, researchers say that the composition of EHT is different in different types of coffee, and that it is important to determine the appropriate amount and ratio so that drinkers do not caffeine, because this can have negative consequences for health. The authors of the study claim that more research is needed to determine the optimal doses of EHT and caffeine , ie what amount of coffee is most beneficial.
In addition to the two components, other very important compounds stand out in coffee - phenylindans , which are formed during the process of roasting coffee. They are also largely responsible for the bitter taste of coffee. Scientists say that the darker the coffee, the greater the amount of these compounds.
Phenylindans inhibit the growth of proteins that are associated with the prevention of degenerative brain diseases. The two types of protein, amyloid beta and tau, are hallmarks of Alzheimer's and Parkinson's disease. As these conditions progress, proteins stimulate the production of amyloid plaques in the brain.
Despite the benefits and positive effects of coffee on the brain and the prevention of dementia and Parkinson's disease, it does not mean that everyone should start drinking dark coffee. Researchers say that according to some studies, less roasted beans have high levels of other beneficial compounds, which also benefit the body, but other studies are being done for them.