The Association between Caffeine Consumption from Coffee and Tea and sleep Health in Male and Female Older Adults: A Cross-Sectional Study

This cross-sectional study examined caffeine consumption from coffee and tea and its effects on sleep health in 1,256 older Dutch adults aged 61-101. It found no significant association between caffeine intake and poor sleep health in men. However, older women who abstained from caffeine reported more sleep disturbances and shorter sleep durations compared to those who consumed caffeine. The findings suggest potential reverse causation—women with existing sleep issues may avoid caffeine. These results highlight the complexity of caffeine’s role in sleep health and the importance of individual and gender differences in its effects.

For older adults, moderate caffeine intake may not impair sleep health and could be acceptable depending on individual tolerance. Women experiencing sleep disturbances should explore underlying causes beyond caffeine avoidance. Since the study highlights potential reverse causation and variability, personalized approaches to caffeine and sleep management are advisable.