Evidence supporting the use of: Fish oil
For the body system: Eyes

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Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 3

Fish oil, rich in omega-3 fatty acids (primarily EPA and DHA), has a scientifically validated role in supporting eye health, particularly in relation to dry eye syndrome and age-related macular degeneration (AMD). Several randomized, controlled trials and epidemiological studies have shown that supplementation with omega-3s can reduce symptoms of dry eye disease by improving tear production and reducing inflammation. For AMD, the evidence is more nuanced: large studies such as the Age-Related Eye Disease Study 2 (AREDS2) found that adding omega-3s to an antioxidant supplement regimen did not significantly reduce the progression to advanced AMD. However, some observational studies suggest that higher dietary intake of omega-3s is associated with a lower risk of developing AMD. The mechanism is thought to involve anti-inflammatory effects and maintenance of retinal cell integrity, as DHA is a major structural component of the retina. Despite some conflicting results, there is enough scientific evidence to support the use of fish oil for certain aspects of eye health, especially for alleviating dry eye symptoms, earning it a moderate evidence score.

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