Caffeine has a beneficial effect against dry eyes, increasing tear production, a new study shows.
Researchers analyzed the DNA of 78 people and looked at two genetic variations that affect caffeine metabolism. It is known that people differ in their reaction to caffeine, depending on their DNA.
Caffeine intake has been shown to promote tear secretion in people with these genetic variations.
Scientists still can't explain how caffeine increases tearing of the eyes.
Increased tear production is associated with certain genetic markers. This explains why some people react to caffeine and others to a lesser extent, the researchers said.
"The idea for the study came after a patient said he felt relieved after drinking a cup of coffee," said lead researcher Dr. Reiko Arita of the University of Tokyo School of Medicine.
According to other studies, regular caffeine users have a lower risk of developing dry eyes.
Caffeine is also thought to stimulate the lacrimal glands, as it also increases salivation, digestive juices and other secretions.
The results are published in the journal Ophthalmology .
According to the American Ophthalmological Association, about 5% of the US population has dry eye syndrome, with most people over the age of 50.
Therapy to relieve the condition includes artificial tears, warm compresses or ointments, as well as medications to increase tear production.
It is believed that women are more likely than men to have dry eyes. Some medications, as well as laser eye surgery, can increase the risk of developing dry eyes.