New study finds coffee may affect MS risk

Summarised from an MS-UK article published: 8 December 2025

A new analysis of published research suggests that people who drink coffee may have a lower chance of developing multiple sclerosis (MS). The review brought together data from more than 4,500 people across seven countries and found that those who drank coffee had about a 22 per cent lower risk of developing MS compared with those who did not.

The researchers explained that coffee contains caffeine and other natural compounds that may help to reduce inflammation in the body. This could be one reason why coffee might play a protective role, although they stressed that more research is needed to understand exactly how it may influence the development of MS and what amounts might be most helpful.

The study, published in Neurodegenerative Disease Management, looked at evidence from earlier research carried out in Iran, Italy, Saudi Arabia, Serbia, Turkey, Sweden and the United States. In total, the analysis included information from 2,193 people living with MS and more than 2,300 people without MS. Results varied across these studies. Some suggested coffee might help to reduce risk, others showed little difference, and a few reported the opposite.

Because the findings were so varied, the team noted that larger studies carried out across multiple countries would be helpful to confirm whether coffee does play a protective part.

The idea that coffee could offer some benefit is supported by research in other neurological conditions. Studies in Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s disease have also shown a possible link between coffee intake and a lower risk of developing these conditions.

Researchers believe that the anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties of coffee might help protect nerve cells in the brain and spinal cord. However, factors such as differences in study design, how coffee was measured, and lifestyle influences like smoking and vitamin D levels may have affected the results.

Overall, this review adds to growing interest in how lifestyle and environmental factors may influence MS risk. While the early findings are encouraging, the authors emphasised that we still need clearer evidence before drawing firm conclusions.

Fancy a Coffee at The Brightwell Café?

Whether you are a coffee drinker or just enjoy a nice cuppa, there is always a warm welcome waiting for you at The Brightwell Café. You don’t need to be having a treatment, our fabulous café is open to everyone.

Pop in for a cake, sandwich or a lunch from 9.30 am to 2.30 pm during the week. There are always lots of people to have a chat with, fully accessible facilities, including a baby changing station and free parking!