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Many foods contain nutrients which can help your dry eye. What do different foods provide, and which are best for your eyes?
Dry eye is an all too common condition, often leading individuals to seek the expertise of an eye doctor or optometrist. While this condition can be uncomfortable, there are as many preventive measures as there are causes. The best foods for dry eye play an important role in these preventive strategies.
An effective way to fend off dry eye is to increase your intake of essential nutrients that enhance tear quality and quantity. Supplements can help, but arguably the most effective way is through nutrient-rich foods. The body tends to absorb vitamins and other nutrients more efficiently from food than supplements.
Let's explore some of the best foods for dry eye, as recommended by our eye care professionals.
Fish, a staple in many eye care clinics' nutritional advice, are excellent for combating dry eye symptoms. Rich in omega-3 fatty acids, they help reduce inflammation in the tear ducts, promoting high-quality tears that function optimally. When looking for the best foods for dry eye, fish should be high on your list.
Most fish, including herring, halibut, tuna, and salmon, are rich in omega-3s. Seafood like oysters also have high omega-3 content, in addition to providing ample zinc.
For vegetarians and vegans seeking an alternative to fish, seeds are another one of the best foods for dry eye. Chia seeds and flaxseed, for instance, are fantastic sources of omega-3s, and flaxseed oil is a common substitute for fish oil.
Nuts are another omega-3-rich food and are also abundant in the antioxidant Vitamin E and Zinc, making them a favorite among eye care professionals. Vitamin E aids in combating age-related damage to the eyes, a common disruptor of tear production.
Walnuts and cashews, in particular, offer a healthy dose of both omega-3s and Vitamin E. Meanwhile, peanuts—technically legumes—are also a valuable source of omega-3s.
Beans are nutrient-dense and are typically encouraged as part of a healthy diet. Besides being protein and fiber-rich, they provide zinc and folate—two elements crucial for eye health.
Zinc is vital as it encourages melanin production, safeguarding your eyes from damage—a key consideration for dry eye sufferers.
Eye doctors often recommend leafy greens, such as spinach, kale, and collards, due to their high folate and Vitamin C content.
Vitamin C is an antioxidant that helps fend off age-related damage and contributes to overall eye health. Additionally, these greens are rich in carotenoids, antioxidants that inhibit cellular damage.
Water, while not nutrient-specific, is crucial for healthy tear production. Dry eye is often a result of dehydration, especially for those living in dry, hot areas.
Maintaining proper hydration is paramount for general health but is particularly vital for your eyes. Without enough water, your body struggles to produce sufficient tears!
These foods, naturally high in Omega 7, are often recommended by our optometrists. Omega-7 aids cell membranes in retaining moisture and may alleviate dry eye symptoms by reducing redness, irritation, and inflammation.
In case of persistent dry eye symptoms, do not hesitate to contact us at 111-222-3333. Our team of dedicated eye care professionals will be ready to assist you. Remember, incorporating the best foods for dry eye into a balanced diet is an important part of a comprehensive approach to managing dry eye symptoms.
Eating the right foods can go a long way toward promoting eye health, especially if you suffer from dry eye. However, it is important to not go overboard, as some vitamins can build up in the body and cause negative effects if you eat too much of them. It is advised that you speak with a doctor regarding dietary changes if you are experiencing dry eye, and are seeking to improve your symptoms. If you have questions, or would like to schedule a consultation, you can reach American Family Vision Clinic at (360) 491-2121. Patients with dry eyes visit our clinic from all over Washington, and we are proud to be a leading provider of dry eye care for patients from Olympia, Lakewood, Tacoma, and Lacey.
Such a nice optician. My grandson is only 4 and needs glasses. We were so sad, but he explained the issues, and we will follow up as he suggested.
I had such a good experience with the clinic. Very friendly staff and doctor, did not have to wait for long to be called, and was treated respectfully. Thanks, American Family.
Dr. Zurcher has gone above and beyond what any other eye doctor has ever done to figure out what is going on with my eyes. Very happy with American Family Vision.
Family Vision Clinic changed our lives! My daughter was frequently car sick, and she was getting headaches every day, often painful enough that they brought her to tears. We saw a string of doctors and therapists, but we made no progress. Finally, we found Dr. Levi Zurcher and his eye therapist Rain. After ten weeks of eye therapy my daughter no longer gets headaches, and she no longer gets car sick. Daily tears are a thing of the past. I really can’t say enough about this clinic. It was fascinating to watch Dr. Zurcher work. For the first time, someone who knew what they were doing was intently studying my daughter, really trying to figure out all of her eye issues, and his therapist Rain is one of the most patient and lovely people that I’ve ever had the good fortune to meet. We’re finished with eye therapy—yay!—and I have switched to American Family Vision Clinic for all of my family’s other eye health needs.
Very professional, yet kind and helpful. They do what they can to make the appointment comfortable. I was running a bit late, I made sure ti call. They were able to switch me with a patient who was already there, they treated me with respect, and helped my son have confidence by getting him the eye care he needed that day. Thank you so much! Would recommend to anyone. It's a blessing that they care enough to work with people who have all different types of insurance from work to state coverage.
The staff is friendly. The Doc is very knowledgeable. The office is family friendly and everyone is so patient with the little ones.
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