Essential fatty acids improve dry eye syndrome

Here is a paper just published in the journal Contact Lens & Anterior Eye that analyzed a number of available studies on the use of omega-3 essential fatty acids in the treatment of dry eye syndrome. The authors note: "Omega-3 supplementation has an anti-inflammatory effect, inhibiting creation of omega-6 prostaglandin precursors. Omega-3 EFAs also demonstrate anti-inflammatory action in the lacrimal gland preventing apoptosis of the secretory epithelial cells. Supplementation clears meibomitis, allowing a thinner, more elastic lipid layer to protect the tear film and cornea." The conclude: "Evidence suggests that supplementation with omega-3 EFA may be beneficial in the treatment and prevention of DES [dry eye syndrome]."