A study from the University of California recently published in the British Journal of Ophthalmology has shown a possible link between tea consumption and risk of glaucoma.

The study of 1,678 participants included eye examination and lifestyle data, and revealed the interesting statistic that, among the group in question, those who drank more than 6 cups of tea every day were nearly 75% less likely to develop the condition. But the researchers are at pains to introduce a disclaimer. As Anne Coleman, co-author of the study, says, readers “should realise that the results are preliminary and drinking tea may not prevent glaucoma”.

The researchers believe the antioxidants and natural anti-inflammatory chemicals in tea may play a role, but some critics have dismissed the link altogether, saying that the research fails to take into account socioeconomic factors which could contribute to the onset of the condition.

Sources:

1. Netdoctor:
   Drinking tea every day could be linked to a lower risk of glaucoma, study shows.