The secret to anti-aging might not be in a mythical fountain, but in your morning brew. A new study published in BMJ Mental Health suggests that drinking coffee daily could slow biological aging.
Researchers found that individuals who consumed three to four cups of coffee per day had longer telomeres—protective caps on DNA that naturally shorten as we age. The telomere length in these coffee drinkers resembled that of a person up to 5 years younger.
Telomeres are protective stretches of DNA at the ends of our chromosomes. Each time our cells replicate, these telomeres become slightly shorter. Some research suggests this shortening may contribute to the aging process, though scientists are still working to understand the role telomeres play in longevity fully. However, studies do indicate that shorter telomeres are associated with a higher risk of disease.
Here’s the “sweet spot” to optimize that anti-aging benefit. The daily intake has been found to be at three to four cups; drinking more than that provides no additional advantage.
Experts believe coffee’s high antioxidant content plays a crucial role. These antioxidants help reduce oxidative stress, preventing damage to DNA cells that typically leads to accelerated aging and shorter telomeres.
This study adds to a growing list of coffee’s clinically proven benefits, which include:
o Heart health: A 2022 study linked 2 to 3 cups daily to a 15% lower risk of heart disease and stroke;
o Disease prevention: Regular consumption is associated with lower risks of type 2 diabetes, liver disease, dementia, and depression.
So, drink up not just to perk you up or stay awake, but to stay looking young, as well.
(Editor’s note: This story is based on an article by Charlotte Pointing posted Dec. 29, 2025 in VegNews.com. To read the full article, click here: https://vegnews.com/coffee-may-be-making-you-younger)