Can Changes In My Diet Relieve Dry Eye Syndrome?

What Is Dry Eye Syndrome?

Dry eye syndrome can be caused by a number of factors, including age, gender, medications, medical conditions, environmental factors, and lifestyle choices. DES can cause the eyes to become dry, irritated, and inflamed, leading to a range of uncomfortable symptoms, including:

• A feeling of grittiness or sand in the eyes
• A burning or stinging sensation
• Redness or swelling of the eyes
• Blurred vision or sensitivity to light
• Difficulty wearing contact lenses

The Connection Between Diet And Dry Eye Syndrome
Our diet plays a crucial role in maintaining overall good health, including eye health. Studies have found that certain nutrients, such as omega-3 fatty acids, vitamins A, C, and E, zinc, and selenium, can help promote healthy tear production and reduce inflammation in the eyes and a diet lacking in these nutrients can increase the risk of developing dry eye syndrome.

Omega-3
Foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids, such as oily fish (salmon, mackerel, and sardines), flaxseeds, and walnuts, have been shown to improve dry eye symptoms. Omega-3s are essential fatty acids that our bodies cannot produce on their own, so we need to obtain them from our diet. They help reduce inflammation in the eyes, which can help alleviate dry eye symptoms.

Vitamin A
Vitamin A is another essential nutrient that plays a role in maintaining healthy eyes. It helps keep the eyes moist by producing the mucus that lubricates the surface of the eyes. Foods rich in vitamin A include carrots, sweet potatoes, spinach, and kale.

Vitamin C
Vitamin C is an antioxidant that helps protect the eyes from damage caused by free radicals. It also helps reduce inflammation in the body. Foods rich in vitamin C include citrus fruits, bell peppers, broccoli, and strawberries.

Vitamin E
Vitamin E is another antioxidant that can help protect the eyes from damage. It helps reduce inflammation and can also help prevent the breakdown of healthy cells in the eyes. Foods rich in vitamin E include nuts, seeds, and leafy green vegetables.

Zinc
Zinc is a mineral that is important for eye health. It helps the body produce oil that keeps the eyes moist and also plays a role in the production of healthy tears. Foods rich in zinc include oysters, beef, chicken, and fortified cereals.

Selenium
Selenium is another mineral that is important for eye health. It is an antioxidant that helps protect the eyes from damage caused by free radicals. Foods rich in selenium include Brazil nuts, seafood, and whole grains.

Can Changing Your Diet Relieve Dry Eye Syndrome?
While there is no cure for dry eye syndrome, changes in your diet can help alleviate symptoms. Eating a diet rich in the nutrients mentioned above can help promote healthy tear production, reduce inflammation in the eyes, and protect the eyes from damage. In addition to incorporating more of these nutrients into your diet, it is also important to stay hydrated. Drinking plenty of water can help keep the eyes moist and reduce dry eye symptoms. You can also limit foods that can worsen dry eye symptoms. These include foods that are high in sugar, caffeine, and alcohol. These foods can dehydrate the body, leading to dry eyes.
 

Dry Eye Relief At Market Mall Optometry

Dry eye syndrome is a common condition that can be caused by many factors, including diet. A diet rich in omega-3 fatty acids, vitamins A, C, and E, zinc, and selenium can help promote healthy tear production, reduce inflammation in the eyes, and protect the eyes from damage. It is also important to stay hydrated and limit foods that can worsen dry eye symptoms. While changes in diet may not cure dry eye syndrome, they can help alleviate symptoms and improve overall eye health.

Dry eye syndrome can be a frustrating and uncomfortable condition. While there is no definitive cure, it is possible to manage dry eye symptoms. If you are experiencing dry eye symptoms, it's important to talk to your eye doctor for a proper diagnosis and personalized treatment plan. By working together, you can find the right combination of strategies to help you manage your dry eye symptoms and see life comfortably again.

Market Mall Optometry can help reduce your dry eye symptoms. During an eye exam, a Calgary optometrist will determine the cause of your dry eyes and will create a symptom relief plan based on this. For comprehensive and personalized dry eye care, visit the dry eye clinic at Market Mall Optometry in NW Calgary or schedule an eye exam with one of our Calgary optometrists. You can contact Market Mall Optometry at 1-403-286-4884 or fill out the online contact form to set up an eye exam and see the world clearly again.
 

FAQ

Q: How do I know if I have dry eyes or not?
A: Common symptoms of dry eyes include:

• A stinging, burning, or scratchy sensation in your eyes.
• Stringy mucus in or around your eyes.
• Sensitivity to light.
• Eye redness.
• A sensation of having something in your eyes.
• Difficulty wearing contact lenses.

Visit your optometrist if you experience any of the symptoms listed above so you can begin treatment to restore your vision and help you see comfortably once again.

Q: What are other allergens that might cause dry eye symptoms?
A: Aside from pollen, dry eye-inducing allergens may include but are not limited to:

• Pet dander
• Perfume
• Mold
• Dust
• Cigarette smoke
• Diesel exhaust fumes
• Ragweed

Q: When should I see a doctor about my dry eyes?
A: While you may be able to manage your symptoms with over-the-counter treatments, it is always smart to get a professional opinion on how to treat your case and gain a better understanding of the condition.