Imagine every blink you take results in sharp pain. I’m not talking about a dirty contact, or a stray eyelash, but about dry eyes-that itchy, burning, redness that just won’t go away, and is extremely painful. You might experience dry eyes on an airplane, sitting in an air-conditioned room, or looking at a computer screen for a few hours.
What Causes Dry Eyes?
Dry eyes are caused by the lack of tears, which are a complex mixture of water, fatty oils, and mucus.1 There are multiple things that can combat dry eyes, such as using eyes drops, switching from contact lenses to glasses, or taking a break from staring at phones and computers.
If you’re looking for additional ways to combat dry eyes, you may want to consider also increasing your intake of omega-3s. Some sources of omega-3, might include fish oil and flaxseed oil.
Fish Oil for Dry Eyes
Fish oil is an excellent source of omega-3. EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid) and DHA (docosahexaenoic acid) are the long-chain amino acids found in fish oil. It appears that omega-3 fatty acids can improve the eye’s oil film that’s produced by small glands on the edge of the eyelid, called the meibomian glands. That improves dry eye symptoms and reduces the need for artificial tears.2 Don’t forget that you can also get fish oil in your diet. The AHA (American Heart Association), recommends consuming fish at least twice a week.
Try our Omega 3
Our omega-3 is sourced from the icy waters of Norway and tested for purity to ensure an odorless product without the fishy aftertaste.
Flaxseed Oil for Dry Eyes
For a vegetarian, flaxseed oil is a great source of omega-3 fatty acids. I do want to point out the difference between these two oils. Since fish oil contains natural forms of EPA and DHA, and don’t need to be converted from ALA like flaxseed oil, many health experts would mostly recommend fish oil over flaxseed. Flaxseed oil is generally less expensive, and you can even grind your own for a good savings.
Other Supplements to Improve Dry Eyes
Supplements that can combat dry eyes and overall eye health are lutein with bilberry, DHA with vitamin D, and vegan DHA. Lutein with bilberry is packed with carotenoids, and carrot powder which contains beta carotene. Also, our DHA with vitamin D, contain both DHA and EPA and our vegan DHA is derived with microalgae oil.
Whether you’re looking for natural supplements to support your eye health or you have other concerns, Persona offers a better way to take your vitamins. Start by taking our free 3 to 5-minute assessment to get personalized vitamin recommendations based on your unique needs. Or, if you already know what you need, try our convenient Essential Packs. Get the right vitamins for you delivered right to your door.
Sources:
1 Dry eyes. Mayo Clinic. https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/dry-eyes/symptoms-causes/syc-20371863. Published March 14, 2019. Accessed June 3, 2019.
2: Mayo Clinic Q and A: Fish oil supplements and dry eyes. Mayo Clinic. https://newsnetwork.mayoclinic.org/discussion/mayo-clinic-q-and-a-fish-oil-supplements-and-dry-eyes/. Accessed June 3, 2019.
