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NEW YORK, June 26, 2025
Sipping instant? It might be aging your eyes
Instant coffee drinkers with certain genes beware.
- age-related macular degeneration (AMD) affects about 200 million globally.
- Dry AMD is the more common type of AMD.
- Genetics and diet are known risk factors for AMD.
- Instant coffee, combined with genetics, may heighten dry AMD risk.
that morning cup of instant coffee might be doing more than just waking you up. New research suggests a link between drinking instant coffee and an increased risk of developing dry age-related macular degeneration (AMD). What is age-related macular degeneration? It is indeed a leading cause of vision loss, affecting approximately 200 million people worldwide.
Understanding AMD and its risk factors
AMD comes in two forms: dry and wet. The dry form, which is more common, involves a natural breakdown of the macula, a crucial area in the back of the retina responsible for central vision. Wet AMD involves abnormal blood vessel growth that damages the macula.
Siwei Liu, MD, a researcher in the Department of Ophthalmology for Shiyan Taihe Hospital at Hubei University of Medicine in China, notes, “AMD is a leading cause of vision loss among the elderly in developed countries.”
“As there is currently no cure, identifying new modifiable factors is crucial for slowing disease progression, preserving vision, and improving patients’ quality of life,” Liu added.
The instant coffee connection
A study published in Food Science & Nutrition suggests a connection between genetics, instant coffee consumption, and the risk of developing dry AMD. Siwei Liu, MD, was the lead author of the study.
the researchers analyzed data from over 500,000 participants via the UK Biobank genome-wide association studies (GWAS), focusing on coffee consumption habits: decaffeinated, ground, and instant. Thay also used data regarding dry and wet AMD in adults 50 and over from the Finngen GWAS dataset.
Liu explained that coffee contains polyphenols and antioxidants with neuroprotective benefits. She added, “At the same time, growing evidence shows that genetics influence dietary preferences. Studying the genetic predisposition to coffee consumption and its relationship with AMD risk may help reveal potential causal links between diet and eye diseases.”
Genetic predisposition and increased risk
The study revealed a link between a genetic inclination for drinking instant coffee and a higher risk of dry AMD. Specifically, individuals with this genetic correlation faced an approximate sevenfold increase in dry AMD risk compared to those who consumed other types of coffee.
“This genetic overlap suggests that there may be shared biological pathways or metabolic mechanisms connecting the preference for instant coffee with the risk of developing dry AMD,” Liu said. “It provides new insight into AMD pathogenesis and offers a potential direction for personalized prevention strategies, such as gene-informed lifestyle interventions.”
The researchers found no such association with wet AMD.
liu and her team plan to confirm these findings in other populations and explore the metabolic pathways involved. “We also aim to perform longitudinal cohort analyses to clarify the causal relationship between coffee intake and AMD progression,” liu added.
Expert opinions
David I. Geffen, OD, FAAO, director of optometric and refractive services at the Gordon Schanzlin New Vision in La Jolla, CA, who was not involved in the study, commented, “This study finds an engaging association with instant coffee and AMD. With our population living longer, AMD is one of the leading disabilities in the senior population. Any change in lifestyle to minimize this risk is well worth exploring.”
“With the large increase in AMD seen in [the United States] it is important to continue with vital research in this area,” he added.”The costs associated with caring and treating AMD patients it is worthwhile to find ways to minimize the risk associated with this disease.”
however, Geffen remains cautious, stating he needs more direct evidence before advising patients to cut out instant coffee.
Benjamin Bert, MD, a board-certified ophthalmologist at MemorialCare Orange Coast Medical Center in Fountain Valley, CA, found the research fascinating. Bert, who was not involved in the research, stated, “First the study demonstrates one of the future directions of medicine that we have been hearing about: directing care based off of someone’s specific DNA risk profile. In this study they found that people have a higher risk of dry AMD with certain genetic markers and consumption of instant coffee.”
“Which brings the second fascinating part of the study, food as medicine,” he continued.
Bert suggests further research to identify other potential food-related risks and whether the study’s findings extend to all highly processed foods.
Delving Deeper: Instant Coffee, Genes, and Eye Health
The recent study highlighted a potential connection between instant coffee consumption, specific genes, and dry age-related macular degeneration (AMD). This research opens up new avenues in understanding AMD, a condition that affects millions globally. Further examination is warranted to confirm this link and explore the underlying mechanisms.
The study, published in *Food Science & Nutrition*, adds to the growing body of knowledge regarding lifestyle choices and eye health. Let’s examine the key findings and implications of this research.
Core Explainer: Unpacking the Study’s Significance
The core of the research lies in identifying a correlation. Researchers discovered that individuals with a genetic predisposition to drink instant coffee also showed a higher risk of developing dry AMD. This correlation was not seen with other types of coffee. It suggests that certain genetic factors may influence both coffee preferences and susceptibility to eye disease.
The study used a large dataset from the UK biobank, analyzing the genetic data and coffee consumption habits of over 500,000 participants. The specific type of coffee consumed (decaffeinated, ground, or instant) was tracked. Moreover, data from another dataset, the Finngen GWAS, provided information about AMD cases. It’s a complex analysis of large datasets seeking correlations.
While the study doesn’t definitively prove that instant coffee *causes* dry AMD,it does point to a possible link. This link warrants additional research to understand the “why” behind the association.Researchers aim to understand the biological pathways involved.
Why Should You Care?
AMD is a serious condition. It causes vision loss and reduces quality of life. Identifying modifiable risk factors, such as dietary choices, is critical for preventative measures. Therefore, this study provides valuable information for eye health.
This study suggests that peopel with a genetic inclination toward instant coffee may have an increased risk of dry AMD. The research highlights the need for an awareness of diet and genetics, especially concerning eye health. Any potential risk factors must be considered for a proactive approach to eye health. regular eye exams are also crucial for early detection and management of AMD.
Benefits & Practical Tips: Protecting Your Vision
Here are some actionable steps you can take to protect your vision and address potential dry AMD risks.
- Know Your Family History: Do you have a family history of AMD? Understanding your genetic risk is crucial for preventative measures.
- Regular Eye Exams: Schedule comprehensive eye exams annually, particularly if you have risk factors like age or family history.
- Dietary Considerations: Consider the health implications of your diet. Aim to eat a balanced diet rich in antioxidants and nutrients that support eye health.
- Coffee Choices: While further research is needed, if you’re genetically predisposed to AMD, consider the type of coffee you drink. Perhaps switch from instant to ground coffee.
- Lifestyle Factors: Are you a smoker? Smoking is a known risk factor for AMD.Other lifestyle factors, like sun exposure, impact eye health.
Myths vs. Facts: Clearing the Confusion
Let’s debunk a few common myths surrounding AMD and coffee consumption.
| Myth | Fact |
|---|---|
| Drinking instant coffee *definitely* causes AMD. | The study shows a correlation, not causation. More research is needed to confirm a direct link. |
| AMD only affects older people. | While AMD is more prevalent in older adults, it can affect people in their 50s or even younger, depending on genetics and other risk factors. |
| Ther’s nothing you can do to prevent AMD. | Lifestyle modifications like diet, smoking cessation, and regular eye exams can reduce AMD risk. |
FAQs: Your Burning Questions Answered
Here are some frequently asked questions about the study and its implications.
Q: Does this mean I should stop drinking instant coffee promptly?
A: Not necessarily. The study highlights a potential link, not a definitive cause. Discuss concerns with your eye doctor.
Q: What other foods or drinks could impact eye health?
A: A diet rich in leafy greens, fish, and fruits is known to promote eye health. Processed foods, heavy in sodium and sugars, should be limited.
Q: What are the next steps in this research?
A: Researchers plan to conduct further studies to confirm the findings and explore the underlying biological mechanisms.They are also investigating metabolic pathways.
Q: Can I take supplements to prevent AMD?
A: Some supplements, like those with lutein and zeaxanthin, may support eye health. Consult your doctor before taking any supplements.
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