Can regular caffeinated coffee help with depression and anxiety?

A recent study published in Psychiatry Research by Jiahao Min, Zhi Cao, Linlin Cui, Feimeng Li, Zuolin Lu, Yabing Hou, Hongxi Yang, Xiaohe Wang, and Chenjie Xu investigated the association between coffee consumption and levels of depression and anxiety.

What was the Study?

The researchers aimed to explore the relationship between coffee consumption and the incidence of depression and anxiety and if drinking coffee was beneficial for depression and anxiety or not.

They did this by analysing data from 146,566 participants who took part in the UK Biobank and completed baseline questionnaires between 2006 and 2010 including incident depression and anxiety.

Multivariable-adjusted logistic regression models and restricted cubic splines were used to evaluate the associations. The study followed Cochrane and PRISMA guidelines for data extraction and bias assessment.

What were the Results?

The researchers note that about 80% of participants consumed coffee - with most drinking 2 to 3 cups per day (41%).

The study found J-shaped associations between coffee consumption and both incident depression and anxiety with the lowest risk occurring at around 2–3 cups per day.

Indeed, the lowest risk of depression and anxiety was observed in participants who consumed 2–3 cups of unsweetened coffee.

In contrast, sugar-sweetened and artificially sweetened coffee did not show significant benefits to depression and anxiety.

So, drinking 2 to 3 cups of unsweetened coffee daily – with or without milk - may reduce the risk of developing depression and anxiety.

But, it seems that coffee with sugar did not provide the same benefits, so the researchers do recommend unsweetened coffee.

Note: This information is intended to support, not replace, discussions with your doctor or healthcare professionals. Always consult with your healthcare provider for personalized medical advice and treatment plans.