Dry Eye & Nutrition Update - Part 3

Could what you eat make your eyes look and feel better?

What you eat can make an impact on how your eyes look and feel. So here are some times about what dietary changes and supplements can help improve your’e eye appearance and comfort.

Vitamin D may also be a consideration for dry, tired eyes. Individuals with vitamin D deficiency are reported to have quicker tear evaporation, lower tear volume, and greater reported symptoms of dry eyes.

A meta-analysis of studies to review the overall relationship between dry eye disease in adults found those with Dry Eye Disease had lower Vitamin D levels. Lower vitamin D levels were also linked with greater symptoms. 

A 2019 study also found that vitamin D supplementation improved the effects of lubricating eye drops; and a 2018 study also found that oral vitamin D supplements improved tear quality and dry eye symptoms.

Vitamin D is a fat-soluble vitamin, produced by your skin when you’re exposed to the sun. It is also found in some foods including salmon, tuna and eggs. It’s also available as a supplement, and often incorporated in to Omega-3 formulations. Those with inflammatory bowel disease, liver disease and untreated celiac disease are more likely to have Vitamin D deficiency. Most doctors recommend 1000iu per day but it is important to speak to your doctor before supplementing Vitamin D as toxicity can occur.