Nutrition for Dry Eye Syndrome

Until recently the main treatments for dry eye syndrome were topical drops that aimed to improve moisture in the eye. Now that more is understood about the causes and we are able to focus on nutritional solutions to the problem which aim to address the underlying pathology. Let’s look at how nutrition can help

1. The role of Omega 3 Fats

DES gets more common as we age and one of the reasons for this is that we gradually begin to produce less oil. This can be bad news as the outer layer of our tears is comprised of oil which has a direct lubricating action within the eye.

So is this condition in old age inevitable? No, fortunately there is much that can be done to help the body to produce more of these essential lubricants. One of the key ways to do this is to eat more omega 3 fats. Omega 3 fats together with omega 6 fats are the two groups of essential fats (so called because they cannot be produced in the body). Omega 3 fats are commonly found in oily fish (such as salmon, mackerel, sardines, herring and fresh tuna), as well as in leafy green vegetables and some nuts and seeds (for example walnuts and flaxseeds). Omega 6 fats tend to be much easier to come by as they are found widely in nuts, seeds and their oils.

2. Vitamin and Mineral deficiencies and dry eye syndrome

Researchers looking at dry eye syndrome have found that deficiencies of vitamin A and zinc can reduce corneal and conjunctival microvilli and increase ocular surface keratinisation. Supplementation with these nutrients has been shown to reverse these changes and to improve symptoms. In addition other nutrients of particular importance include B6, vitamin C, magnesium and potassium

3. Sugar and Refined Carbohydrates

High Consumption of sugar has been linked to DES. In one study, consuming in excess of 11 teaspoons of sugar a day was associated with an increased risk of this condition (a single can of fizzy drink contains approximately 9 teaspoons of sugar). Sugar is also hidden throughout processed and refined foods including cereals, ketchup, and salad dressings. What’s more it may not only be diets high in sugar itself that cause the problems. DES seems to be much higher amongst individuals with diabetes. (possibly because of the inflammatory nature of this disease).

4.Water, Caffeine and Alcohol

Not drinking enough water can lead to general dehydration and dry eyes so aim for 8-12 large glasses daily (possibly more if you are heavily exercising). Alcohol and caffeine (found in coffee, tea, chocolate, green tea) have also been shown to have a dehydrating effect on the body so it is worth reducing or avoiding these substances.

5. Nutrition, Hormone Imbalance and dry eyes

Dry eye syndrome is much more common in women and often seems to begin at the time of the menopause highlighting the role played by hormones. Until recently it was thought that the decline in oestrogen which happens at the menopause might be to blame, but later research has not found a link with low oestrogen. In fact taking oestrogen seems to increase the risk of getting the condition by 70%!

6.Nutrition, Autoimmune Disease and Dry Eye syndrome

Dry eye syndrome is associated with a number of autoimmune diseases such as sjogren’s syndrome, lupus erythematosus (SLE), rheumatoid arthritis and primary billiary sclerosis.

As a sufferer of Dry Eye Syndrome for years, I wanted to help others deal with the condition and gain long term relief. I have worked with expert eye specialists to produce a book and free reports. You can get a free report on eye health which talks about how you can stop yourself going blind and look after your eyes. Its an absolute must read – get it here http://www.caredryeye.com