---
title: "How Do Omega-3 Fatty Acids Affect Dry Eye Syndrome?"
url: "https://www.visioncenter.org/eye-health/omega-3-for-dry-eyes/"
description: "Although inflammation is necessary for the healing process, it can sometimes become excessive. Chronic inflammation is a major factor in dry eye syndrome,..."
---

Dry eye syndrome can often feel like sand in your eyes. Sometimes, it can feel like a blurry, filmy feeling that you can’t blink away.

However, dry eyes are more than just an annoyance. They can cause significant discomfort and potentially interfere with your daily life.

## Can Omega-3 Fatty Acids Help with Dry Eye Syndrome?

Omega-3s, especially EPA and DHA, are healthy fats in foods like fish and flaxseeds. These fats protect your heart and play a significant role in fighting inflammation.

Although inflammation is necessary for the healing process, it can sometimes become excessive. Chronic inflammation is a major factor in dry eye syndrome, so having some omega-3s can help balance things out.

Multiple studies show that omega-3 supplements can help relieve dry eye symptoms. People report less of that dry, gritty feeling, less sensitivity to light, and even better vision.

### How Do Omega-3 Fatty Acids Work?

Your tears comprise several layers designed to nourish and protect your eyes. One of these layers is an oily layer where omega-3s can help.

Increasing your omega-3 intake can help the glands in your eyelids produce more oily layers. More oil means your tears don’t evaporate as quickly, keeping your eyes comfortable for longer.

## The Benefits of Omega-3 Fatty Acids on Overall Eye Health

The omega-3 index measures the amount of omega-3 in red blood cells. If you have a good amount of omega-3 in your system, your risk of getting dry eye is significantly lower. On the other hand, if your omega-3 index is low, you might need to increase your intake.

However, having a healthy amount of omega-3 in your body can have various benefits, including:

-   Delaying macular and age-related macular degeneration (AMD) progress
-   Reduced risk of glaucoma
-   Improved eye health for infants
-   Maintaining retina health

### Some Considerations for Omega-3 Fatty Acids

Although omega-3 can benefit eye health, it isn’t a magic cure for eye problems. For example, early studies on omega-3 for preventing AMD show mixed results.

On the other hand, omega-3 supplements can affect people differently. Certain people might benefit from omega-3 based on individual factors, and these factors haven’t been clearly defined by researchers.

However, omega-3 can contribute to your overall eye health to some degree. You’ll just need to temper your expectations.

## Should You Take Omega-3?

Whether or not you should take omega-3 is a conversation for your doctor. Although it has many benefits, your doctor will know how it will affect you.

They’ll typically look at certain factors to determine whether omega-3 supplementation is right for you:

-   Age
-   Family history of AMD
-   Current eye health
-   Overall diet
-   Pregnancy

Choose high-quality omega-3 supplements with EPA and DHA and discuss dosing with your doctor.

## How to Choose the Right Supplements For You

There are many sources of omega-3, from food to supplements. As mentioned before, you can get omega-3 from fish, flaxseeds, dairy, and eggs. However, EPA and DHA can also be obtained from fish, krill, and algae oil.

Supplements are a different question altogether. Here are some tips to help you spot quality supplements:

-   **Read the label carefully:** Don't just go by the total amount of fish oil listed. Check for the actual amounts of EPA and DHA.
-   **Look for certification seals:** Reputable brands often carry seals from organizations like IFOS, USP, or NSF, ensuring their products have been independently tested.
-   **Smell:** A supplement with a strong fishy odor may be oxidized, which can be harmful.
-   **Choose reputable brands:** Research and stick with companies with a positive reputation for quality and transparency.
-   **Talk to your doctor:** They can offer personalized advice, especially if you take medication or have other health conditions.
-   **Pay attention to purity:** Choose third-party certified supplements for purity to ensure they're free from contaminants like mercury and PCBs.
-   **Dosage:** Look at the amount of EPA and DHA per serving. To support eye health, aim for at least 1000mg combined EPA and DHA daily.
-   **Triglyceride:** Triglyceride and re-esterified triglyceride forms tend to be better absorbed than ethyl esters.

Omega-3 fatty acids, particularly EPA and DHA, can be a valuable addition to your eye care routine. While they might not be a miracle cure, they can play a significant role in keeping your eyes comfortable and healthy. But as always, consult your doctor to determine the best approach for your specific needs.