A Common Drink May Harm Your Eyes …Scientists Reveal a Surprising Connection

For millions of people, the day doesn’t truly begin until that first cup of coffee. It’s comforting, energizing, and for many, non-negotiable. Coffee has also earned a generally positive reputation in health research, with studies linking it to lower risks of liver disease, type 2 diabetes, certain cancers, and even heart problems.

But emerging research suggests that not all coffee is created equal—and one popular type may deserve a closer look, particularly when it comes to long-term eye health.

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New Research Raises Red Flags

A recent study published in Food Science & Nutrition examined the relationship between different types of coffee and age-related macular degeneration (AMD)—a progressive eye disease that damages the retina and can lead to permanent vision loss.

AMD is currently the leading cause of irreversible blindness in adults over the age of 50, making any potential lifestyle risk factor especially important to understand.

The researchers compared three common coffee types:

• Ground (brewed) coffee

• Decaffeinated coffee

• Instant coffee

Their findings were striking: only instant coffee showed a statistically significant association with an increased risk of dry AMD, the most common form of the condition.

This result stood out because previous studies had suggested coffee might actually protect against AMD—making the new findings both unexpected and noteworthy.

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Why Instant Coffee Might Be Different

The researchers proposed that the difference may lie in how instant coffee is produced.

“The varying effects of different coffee types on AMD may be related to manufacturing processes, additives, and other factors… the production of instant coffee may lead to the formation of potentially harmful substances.”

Unlike brewed coffee, instant coffee undergoes extensive processing, including high heat, dehydration, and reconstitution. These steps may alter its chemical composition, potentially increasing compounds that could affect retinal health.

That said, scientists emphasize that the exact biological mechanism remains unclear, and further studies are needed before drawing definitive conclusions.

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How Big Was the Risk?

According to the study’s data, each standard-deviation increase in instant coffee consumption was associated with nearly a sevenfold increase in the likelihood of developing dry AMD.

Dry AMD accounts for approximately 90% of all AMD cases. It progresses slowly, as protein deposits known as drusen build up beneath the retina, gradually impairing central vision and color perception.

While the number sounds alarming, it’s important to remember that this study identifies an association, not direct causation.

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Who May Need to Be Extra Careful

The researchers suggested that certain groups may want to be more cautious with instant coffee intake, especially those who already have risk factors for AMD, including:

• Smokers or former smokers

• People with high blood pressure

• Individuals with obesity

• Those with a family history of AMD

For these individuals, small lifestyle adjustments may offer added protection over time.

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Should You Give Up Instant Coffee Completely?

Not necessarily.

Instant coffee remains a convenient and affordable option for many people, and this study alone isn’t enough to label it dangerous. However, if you’re concerned about eye health—or already fall into a higher-risk category—switching to ground or freshly brewed coffee may be a safer choice until more research is available.

More importantly, coffee choice is just one small piece of the puzzle.

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Protecting Your Vision Still Comes Down to Daily Habits

To reduce the risk of AMD and protect long-term eye health, experts continue to recommend:

• Avoiding smoking

• Eating leafy greens and antioxidant-rich foods

• Protecting eyes from UV light

• Managing blood pressure and cholesterol

• Limiting excessive screen exposure

• Scheduling regular eye exams

These habits have a far stronger and more proven impact than any single beverage choice.

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The Bottom Line

New research suggests a potential link between instant coffee and an increased risk of dry age-related macular degeneration, but more studies are needed to confirm the findings and explain why the connection exists.

For now:

• Brewed or ground coffee appears to be the safer option

• Higher-risk individuals may want to limit instant coffee

• Healthy lifestyle choices remain the best defense against vision loss

Instant coffee may save you a few minutes each morning—but when it comes to your eyesight, being mindful of small daily choices could make a meaningful difference over time.