Could caffeine be used to treat Alzheimer's?

July 6, 2009 (WLS) -- Caffeine may do more than keep you alert. There is increasing evidence that your coffee habit could do wonders for your brain.

Two new studies are adding to the evidence that coffee consumption may help treat or even prevent Alzheimer's disease and dementia. Researchers at the University of Florida say this means caffeine in coffee could be used as an effective treatment for Alzheimer's.

But there's a catch. Humans would have to drink five 8 ounce cups of ordinary coffee every day.

Scientists say it is not clear if the caffeine would work for everyone or just people who are at higher risk of Alzheimer's.