During a time when cutting fat from our diets is encouraged, your eye doctor may actually recommend adding more of the right fat to your diet; specifically fatty acids, known as the "building blocks" of fat. Fatty acids are crucial for the normal production and function of your body’s cells, muscles, nerves, and organs. They are also necessary for the production of hormone-like compounds that help regulate blood pressure, heart rate and blood clotting
As far as the eyes are concerned, multiple studies suggest that Omega-3 fatty acids may help protect your eyes from both macular degeneration and dry eye syndrome. The studies also indicate that essential fatty acids may help with drainage of intraocular fluid from the eye, thereby decreasing the risk of high eye pressure and glaucoma. A 2008 study in which participants ate oily fish at least once per week showed half the risk of developing neovascular ("wet") macular degeneration, compared with those who ate fish less than once per week.
It is important to remember that, your body cannot produce fatty acids on their own. You can only get them from food and supplements. For more information on Omega-3 fatty acids and how to add them to your diet, visit the nutrition section of our website.