More benefits of Omega-3 essential fatty acids

As discussed in the previous blog, it is believed that Omega-3 essential fatty acids help with dry eye symptoms. I personally have witnessed this with some of my dry eye patients and believe it to be true in certain cases. So the question many people ask - do I take them or not?

A recent article in the Journal of the American College of Cardiology lists some of the documented benefits of Omega-3's. Among them are decreased triglycerides, lower resting heart rate and lowered blood pressure. A prospective study showed that the benefits are most consistent for Coronary Heart Disease Mortality and Sudden Cardiac Death.

I recommend to most of my patients that they take Omega-3 supplements. Nearly everyone will benefit from them. Those that should use caution are people with diabetes and anyone taking blood thinners or those with bleeding problems. As with all supplements consult your physician before beginning to take them. My book has an extensive discussion regarding Omega-3's.

Omega-3 Essential Fatty acids and Dry Eye

Over the last couple of years there has been much discussion, as well as some disagreement, about the role of Omega-3 intake and dry eye. It is currently believed by most dry eye experts that a full days supply of Omega-3's can increase tear production and decrease dry eye. In my book I discuss this at length as well as the amount and types of Omega-3's to take.

In a recent issue of  Cornea: The Journal of Cornea and External Disease a study was presented that investigated this. The result of the study by Wojtowicz JC, Butovich I, et al. showed that after a 90 day trial, 70% of dry eye patients taking oral Omega-3 supplements had improvement in their dry eye symptoms. They also showed an increased tear volume in their eyes as measured by several clinical tests.

As with all supplements you should consult your physician before taking them, however Omega-3's are believed to help with dry eye as well as having many other health benefits.