Caffeine as an ally against disease.
When you wake up in the morning, it is often the first thing you think of: a cup of coffee.
This daily ritual, a must for many, not only provides energy and concentration, but can also positively affect mood. Several studies suggest that caffeine stimulates the production of dopamine and serotonin, two neurotransmitters associated with pleasure and well-being. While research, such as that conducted by the Harvard Medical School, indicate that coffee consumption may even reduce the risk of depression and improve resilience to stress. This is an interesting finding, highlighting that the effects of coffee go far beyond just the feeling of “waking up” in the morning.
The link between coffee and Parkinson's prevention
In addition to its effects on mood, coffee may also play a role in the prevention of Parkinson's disease. According to numerous epidemiological studies, regular caffeine consumption is associated with a reduced risk of developing the disease. A scientific review conducted at the Leicester Medical School in 2023 showed that caffeine acts as an adenosine A2A receptor antagonist, helping to modulate dopaminergic transmission and reducing oxidative stress, both key factors in the degeneration of neurons responsible for the disease.
One particularly interesting aspect concerns the difference in incidence between men and women: research suggests that the benefit of caffeine is more pronounced in male subjects, while in women it may be influenced by hormonal factors, such as hormone replacement therapy. In addition, a dose-dependent effect has been found i.e., higher coffee consumption appears to be related to a more pronounced reduction in the risk of developing Parkinson's disease. However, it is important to consider the side effects of excessive consumption, such as nervousness, insomnia and increased heart rate.
Does coffee help those who already have Parkinson's disease?
While research shows a correlation between coffee consumption and the prevention of Parkinson's disease, the discussion changes when its effects are analyzed in patients already suffering from the disease. A clinical study carried out by Dr. Ronald B. Postuma and published by the’American Academy of Neurology in 2017, evaluated the impact of caffeine on disease symptoms, particularly muscle stiffness and bradykinesia. The results showed that caffeine does not bring significant improvements in motor symptoms. This suggests that although coffee may have a protective role before the onset of the disease, it is not an effective solution for those already living with Parkinson's.
Alternative solutions to improve Parkinson's motor symptoms
If caffeine does not help manage motor symptoms, there are other technological, innovative and noninvasive solutions. Some of these can reduce movement symptoms such as motor blocks and festination, improving balance in patients with Parkinson's disease, peripheral neuropathy or in post-stroke rehabilitation. Gondola AMPS therapy in fact uses peripheral mechanical stimulation on the feet to send signals to the brain, optimizing the neural circuits involved in movement. Unlike coffee, which acts primarily on neuroprotection, the AMPS therapy targets Parkinson's symptoms directly, offering immediate and long-term benefits for those who struggle with motor difficulties every day.
Coffee: an ally in prevention, but not in cure
Coffee has been shown to be more than just an energizing drink: it can improve psychological well-being and reduce the risk of developing Parkinson's. But for those already living with Parkinson's, innovative therapies such as peripheral mechanical stimulation offer immediate benefits. Prevention is always key, but when facing daily challenges such as freezing and walking difficulties, it is important to choose the most effective strategies to treat symptoms. Only then can the quality of life for patients and caregivers be improved, enhancing the independence and freedom of both.
Sources:
Drinking coffee may decrease depression risk in women, Harvard School of Public Health, 2011
https://hsph.harvard.edu/news/coffee-depression-women-ascherio-lucas/
Coffee helps prevent and slow Parkinson's, Federica Bosco, 2022.
https://www.sanitainformazione.it/salute/il-caffe-aiuta-a-prevenire-e-a-rallentare-il-parkinson/
Does Drinking Coffee Reduce the Incidence of Parkinson's Disease? Otolaryngology, College of Life Sciences, Leicester Medical School, 2023
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9883660/
Caffeine as symptomatic treatment for Parkinson disease (Café-PD), Department of Neurology, Montreal General Hospital, 2017
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC5664303/
Italiano
Français
Deutsch
English