Some research shows that fish oil, vitamin C and zinc may enhance eye health. For instance, they can help reduce dryness and inflammation.
Therefore, dry eyes might signal a vitamin deficiency and taking a supplement might resolve the symptoms. And, beyond assisting with eyesight, these vitamins can help keep the immune system healthy.
Furthermore, the Mayo Clinic says that other symptoms of dry eyes can include blurry vision, light sensitivity, mucus around the eye or even excessive tearing. As dry eyes can be a chronic condition, some people resort to using over-the-counter eye drops.
However, omega 3 fish oil may eliminate the need for eye drops. Plus, you can get the additional health benefits at the same time.
Note: Having said all that, an NIH-funded study on PubMed reported that fish oil supplementation showed no positive effect vs placebo. Therefore, keep in mind that consuming fish oil may or may not work for you.
How Does Omega 3 Help Eyesight?
According to Harvard Medical School, omega-3 fatty acids DHA and EPA protect cells in the retina. In addition to possibly decreasing the risk of macular degeneration, they keep the eyes lubricated in people with dry eye syndrome.
How Much Omega 3 Should You Take for Dry Eyes?
The recommended daily dosage of omega 3 fatty acids is 1.1 grams. Some people choose to simply take a supplement, but you can also eat oily fish (like salmon or tuna) two times a week and get the same nutritional benefits.
Keep in mind, though, that loading up with a higher dose of fish oil when you first start taking them can offer more benefits. (See video below)
Note: Vegans can get omega 3 fatty acids from some nuts, seeds or algae in the form of ALA (Alpha Linoleic Acid). However, the human body only converts ALA to EPA in small amounts.
Which Omega 3 Supplements Should You Get for Dry Eyes?
Optometrists have developed an omega 3 fish oil supplement called Heyedrate Triglyceride that also contains numerous other eye healthy ingredients:
- 515mg EPA
- 415mg DHA
- 40mg Omega 7 (improves oil gland function)
- Lactoferrin (reduces redness and soreness)
- Vitamin E (promotes healing on eye surface)
- Vitamin C (promote healing on eye surface)
- Magnesium (repairs eye surface)
- Vitamin B-6 (increases tear production)
They created it to help with eye burning, itching and irritation. In addition, it can reduce soreness and redness.
This natural supplement works as a powerful anti-inflammatory and therefore can address the root cause of the problem. For example, it stimulates tear production and oil production to moisture the eye. In turn, the symptoms of irritation get diminished.
Although this omega 3 supplement contains several other nutrients to enhance the effects of the fish oil, they are affordably priced. In fact, these pills cost about the same as other products that just contain fish oil. On top of that, you can get a discounted price when ordering bottles in bulk.
Ophthalmologists recommend this specific product to their patients for eye dryness. Plus, customer reviews report changes in as little as a few weeks in regards to reduced redness and irritation as well as increased lubrication.
Another option is Ultimate Omega from Nordic Naturals. This reputable brand makes a high quality product that contains slightly more fish oil and costs a few dollars less for a 30-day supply. However, it does not include the additional vitamins and minerals in their formula.
Will omega 3 help reduce eye pressure?
“Essential fatty acids also may help proper drainage of intra-ocular fluid from the eye, decreasing the risk of high eye pressure and glaucoma.” (Source)
Can Fish Oil Help with Eye Strain?
Although fish oil may help boost the health of your eyes, the Mayo Clinic has other recommendations for eye strain, especially for computer users. These include blinking often, taking eye breaks and adjusting your screen settings.
