Fish Oil And Flaxseed Oil For Dry Eyes
Flaxseed oil and fish oil may help to treat and improve the symptoms of dry eyes. This is because they contain important dietary fatty acids that have multiple health benefits. These health benefits are believed to derive from omega-3 fatty acids needed by the body for vital functions and eyesight.
Dry eye, also known as dry eye syndrome, is a chronic condition that results from insufficient production of tears or excessive evaporation of the tear film that covers the eye surface, including the cornea. This condition is very common and affects millions of people worldwide. Symptoms include dryness of the eye, scratchiness, eye redness, light sensitivity or burning of the eyes.
Omega-3 fatty acids may be very helpful as a component to combat symptoms of dry eye and improve eye health in general. They are anti-inflammatory and may help tear secretion by improving the oil in the tear film.
Oils, fish and nuts for happy eyes
Essential fatty acid omega-3, cannot be synthesised by the body and must be obtained through dietary sources. Omega-3 acids comprise of three different types of essential fatty acids; ALA (alpha-linolenic acid), EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid) and DHA (docosahexaenoic acid). Flaxseed oil and fish oil are sources of EPA and DHA which are essential for good health. ALA is a plant-based omega-3 with good dietary sources, including flaxseeds, vegetable oils, walnuts, and soya. Flaxseed oil contains high levels of ALA, and during digestion, ALA is converted by the body into EPA and DHA. Fish oil may be considered as a better source of omega-3 fats, as it is rich in EPA and DHA. EPA and DHA are found in foods like salmon, mackerel, herring, sardines, and walnuts. These fatty acids can also be found in fish oil supplements and flaxseed oils supplements.
It is recommended to consult with your ophthalmologist to help with treatment and management for your dry eyes.
About the expert
Mr Hamada | Consultant Ophthalmologist and Corneal Surgeon
MD, MSc, DO (hons), FRCSEd, FRCOphth I am Samer, founder and consultant ophthalmic surgeon with over 20 years’ experience in ophthalmology. I am a world-renowned specialist in cornea, cataract and refractive surgery. I’m not only a leading surgeon but also the only dual fellowship trained in corneal diseases in children from reputable institutions in the UK. At Eye Clinic London I work closely with other consultant ophthalmologists, optometrists and orthoptists to achieve the best outcomes for our patients. Our main aim is to make sure our patients get the safest and best treatments available to them. We put your safety before anything else so you can rest assured that if you choose us you will be in the best and safest hands.
