Caffeinated and decaffeinated coffee lower stress, depression and impulsivity

The scoop

Does coffee actually improve mood, or just relieve withdrawal from quitting it? A study found that both caffeinated and decaffeinated coffee lowered stress, depression, and impulsivity after participants resumed drinking, with distinct benefits per type: decaf improved learning and memory, while caffeinated coffee reduced anxiety and inflammation. Readers questioned whether results reflect genuine chemical effects versus placebo, withdrawal relief, or ritual benefits.