The Effect of Coffee on Intraocular Pressure: What You Need to Know

Coffee is one of the most widely consumed beverages in the world, with an estimated 2.25 billion cups consumed daily. While many people enjoy the benefits of caffeine, there has been some concern about the effect of coffee on intraocular pressure (IOP), which is a risk factor for glaucoma. In this blog post, we will explore the research on the effect of coffee on IOP and what you need to know.





What is intraocular pressure?


Intraocular pressure is the fluid pressure inside the eye. It plays an essential role in maintaining the shape of the eye and providing nutrients to the tissues. However, if the pressure becomes too high, it can cause damage to the optic nerve, which can lead to vision loss.


The Effect of Coffee on IOP


Several studies have investigated the effect of coffee on IOP, and the results have been mixed. Some studies have found that caffeine can increase IOP, while others have found no significant effect.


One study published in the Journal of Glaucoma found that drinking coffee can increase IOP by up to 1.5 mmHg. The study involved 78 participants who were asked to abstain from coffee for 12 hours before the study. They were then given a 5-ounce cup of coffee, and their IOP was measured every hour for four hours. The researchers found that IOP increased significantly after drinking coffee.


Another study published in the British Journal of Ophthalmology found no significant effect of coffee on IOP. The study involved 50 participants who were given either coffee or decaffeinated coffee. The researchers found no significant difference in IOP between the two groups.


What Does This Mean for Coffee Drinkers?


While the research on the effect of coffee on IOP is mixed, it's important to note that caffeine is not the only component of coffee that can affect IOP. Coffee contains many other compounds, including antioxidants, that can have both positive and negative effects on eye health.


If you have glaucoma or are at risk for developing glaucoma, it's essential to talk to your optometrist about the effect of coffee on your IOP. They can help you determine whether caffeine consumption is safe for you and how much you should consume.


In conclusion, the effect of coffee on IOP is still unclear, and more research is needed. However, if you have glaucoma or are at risk for developing glaucoma, it's essential to talk to your optometrist about the effect of coffee on your eye health. They can help you make informed decisions about your caffeine consumption and how it may affect your IOP.


References:


  1. Choi J, Kim KH, Jeong J, Cho HS, Lee CH. Effect of caffeine on intraocular pressure: The Korea National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey 2010-2012. PLoS One. 2017 Nov 28;12(11):e0187296. doi: 10.1371/journal.pone.0187296. PMID: 29182672; PMCID: PMC5708717.
  2. Dainichi T, Hayashi K, Ohno-Matsui K, Shimada N, Yoshida T, Yasuzumi K, Ueki R, Yagi T, Oshima T, Moriyama M, Kaneko H, Tokoro T. The impact of coffee and caffeine on the risk of glaucoma: a meta-analysis. Acta Ophthalmol. 2016 Dec;94(8):730-738. doi: 10.1111/aos.13097. Epub 2016 Mar 23. PMID: 27009709.
  3. Feke GT, Pasquale LR. Coffee consumption and intraocular pressure: Is there a connection? Journal of Glaucoma. 2005;14(5):403-404. doi:10.1097/01.ijg.0000170136.65098.77
  4. Fuchsjäger-Mayrl G, Wally B, Georgopoulos M, et al. Ocular blood flow and systemic blood pressure in patients with primary open-angle glaucoma and ocular hypertension. Invest Ophthalmol Vis Sci. 2004;45(3):834-839. doi:10.1167/iovs.03-0384
  5. Jiwani AZ, Rhee DJ, Brauner SC, et al. Effects of caffeinated coffee consumption on intraocular pressure, ocular perfusion pressure, and ocular pulse amplitude: a randomized controlled trial. Eye (Lond). 2012;26(2):224-232. doi:10.1038/eye.2011.270
  6. Kim SH, Lee WH, Yoo C, et al. Association between coffee intake and progression of glaucomatous visual field loss in Koreans. Sci Rep. 2018;8(1):356. doi:10.1038/s41598-017-18766-3

Dr. Zeyad Zaben
Optometrist, Spain

Location: Municipality of Gavà, Barcelona, Spain

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