For millions of people, a cup of coffee in the morning is more than a beverage—it’s a daily ritual that kick-starts the day. But recent research has revealed a startling connection between one particular type of coffee and long-term eye health, raising concerns that many coffee lovers might never have expected.
While coffee has long been praised for its potential health benefits—ranging from reduced risk of liver disease and cardiovascular problems to some forms of cancer—new evidence suggests that not all coffee is equally beneficial. In fact, scientists are now warning that instant coffee may carry serious risks for your vision.
A study published in Food Science & Nutrition highlights that instant coffee consumption ‘significantly increases the risk’ of developing age-related macular degeneration (AMD), a progressive eye disease that can cause permanent vision loss and, in severe cases, complete blindness. Researchers compared the effects of ground coffee, decaffeinated coffee, and instant coffee, finding that only instant coffee had a statistically significant link to dry AMD—the most common form of the disease.
This discovery stands in stark contrast to earlier studies suggesting that coffee, in general, may help reduce the risk of macular degeneration. Scientists speculate that the disparity may be due to the manufacturing process of instant coffee, which can produce potentially harmful compounds or include additives that contribute to eye damage.
The study found that for each increase in standard daily intake of instant coffee, the risk of developing dry AMD rises nearly sevenfold. Dry AMD accounts for roughly 90% of all cases and is caused by protein deposits forming under the retina, the central part of the eye responsible for sharp, detailed vision. Once central vision is lost due to AMD, it cannot be restored, making prevention crucial.
Experts emphasize that individuals with higher risk factors—such as smokers, those with high blood pressure, obesity, or a family history of macular degeneration—should exercise particular caution and consider avoiding instant coffee altogether.
Though instant coffee offers convenience, the new findings suggest that the potential health cost, particularly in terms of irreversible vision loss, may far outweigh the time saved from brewing a fresh cup. For those concerned about eye health, switching to freshly ground or decaffeinated coffee might be a safer option for protecting long-term vision.