Do you need help getting the essential nutrients your eyes need for good health? If you want to avoid eating fish daily, fish oil and omega-3 supplements are great alternatives. They can help improve your vision and lower your risk of macular degeneration.

This detailed guide will show you four essential reasons why fish oil and omega-3s should be a big part of your diet if you want your eyes to be in the best shape possible.

1. Reduces Dry Eye Syndrome

Dry eye syndrome is a common condition, especially among those over 50. A lack of tear production can lead to eye irritation and redness. However, studies have found that taking omega-3 fatty acids can help reduce symptoms of dry eye syndrome and improve overall eye health.

In a study, 32 000 women aged 45 to 84 were observed, and the results showed that those with the highest intake of omega-3 fatty acids had a lower risk of developing dry eye syndrome.

2. Reduces the Potential for Macular Degeneration

Macular degeneration is the most common reason why people over the age of 50 lose their sight. It happens when the macula, a tiny spot in the retina's center, gets damaged or breaks down.

A Holland-based study found that those consuming a hearty helping of fresh fruits and vegetables and two weekly servings of fish dramatically decreased their chances of developing age-related macular degeneration compared to participants who neglected such habits.

Omega-3 acids, found in fish like mackerel, herring, and salmon, help lower the risk of macular degeneration.

3. Prevents the Risk of Glaucoma

A disorder called glaucoma causes damage to the optic nerve and can eventually cause blindness. Most people with glaucoma don't know they have it until it's pretty bad, so preventing it is essential.

Scientists have found that fish oil lowers the risk of high intraocular pressure (IOP) by helping the eye's fluid drain. When neglected, IOP can progress to glaucoma and even lead to blindness.

4. Aids in Vision Development

Babies and infants with developing vision can benefit from consuming omega-3 fatty acids. These essential fatty acids help support visual development in young children.

Research suggests that pregnant women who get enough docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) and other omega-3s in their diet might help ensure healthy vision development for their infants.

Also, the fatty acids in breast milk are essential for developing a baby's eyesight.

Research has indicated that preterm babies with healthy development who were given formula enriched with DHA had significantly better vision than infants who had regular procedures.

Closing Thoughts

Fish oil's eye health benefits are undeniable. Taking fish oil or an omega-3 supplement regularly can help protect the eyes, make the macula thicker, and improve vision.

Additionally, proper nutrition and regular exercise can further enhance vision health. Taking time to care for your eyes now will set you up for many healthy years with great vision!

Sources

1. https://www.allaboutvision.com/eye-care/eye-health/fish-oil-benefits/
2. https://www.allaboutvision.com/nutrition/fatty_acid_1.htm
3. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3834239/
4. https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fnhum.2013.00774/full
5. https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/40253#_noHeaderPrefixedContent
6. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30312575/
7. https://www.aao.org/eye-health/tips-prevention/does-fish-oil-help-dry-eye
8. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7230711/
9. https://iovs.arvojournals.org/article.aspx?articleid=2188773
10. https://www.nvisioncenters.com/diet-and-eye-health/omega-3s/