Study Finds Caffeinated Coffee Linked to Healthy Ageing in Women Over 30

Coffee isn’t just your go-to morning pick-me-up—it’s packed with powerful health benefits that extend far beyond an energy boost. Rich in antioxidants, coffee helps protect cells from damage and supports brain health. Its most well-known compound, caffeine, enhances alertness, improves focus, and uplifts your mood.

Now, a new study led by Dr. Sara Mahdavi, a researcher at Harvard, suggests that drinking caffeinated coffee during midlife may be linked to healthier ageing in women.

The Study: 30 Years, 50,000 Women, One Key Insight

Presented at Nutrition 2025, the American Society for Nutrition’s annual conference held in Orlando from May 31 to June 3, the study tracked 47,513 women for over 30 years as part of the long-running Nurses’ Health Study—a major research effort launched in 1984.

Using detailed food questionnaires, the researchers estimated each woman’s caffeine intake from sources like coffee, tea, cola, and even decaf coffee.

The key focus? To understand whether caffeine consumption during midlife played a role in promoting " healthy ageing ."

What is 'Healthy Ageing'?

In this study, healthy ageing was defined as living beyond 70 years without:

• 11 major chronic diseases
  
  
• Significant memory issues
  
  
• Physical disabilities

Emotional or mental health challenges

In other words, the goal was to see whether caffeine helped women maintain physical strength, mental clarity, and emotional balance as they aged.

When Should You Drink Coffee? The Best Time, According to Research

So, when is the optimal time to drink coffee for the best effects?

According to the study, consuming coffee in the morning may offer the greatest benefits—particularly for mental sharpness and physical strength, two key elements of healthy ageing.

That first cup of coffee after waking up doesn’t just fight drowsiness—it gives your brain and body the gentle push they need to kick off the day. Caffeine increases alertness, enhances mood, and helps you focus—especially helpful if you’re feeling groggy.

Experts suggest waiting 30 to 60 minutes after waking up to drink your coffee. This timing aligns with your body’s natural wake-up cycle, ensuring caffeine works in harmony with your biological rhythm.

Additionally, early consumption can reduce the chances of sleep disturbances later in the day, making it a smart choice for those aiming to age healthfully.

Takeaway

If you’re someone who enjoys a morning cup of coffee, this research gives you one more reason to feel good about it. With regular, moderate caffeine intake—especially during midlife—coffee may contribute to better health, clearer thinking, and more vitality in your later years.

So go ahead and savour that morning brew. It might just be doing more for your future than you think.