Omega-3 Fatty Acids (2015) & Computer Eye Syndrome

Learn about managing computer eye strain.

2016

This study recommended 1,000mg-2,000mg per day dosage for omega-3 in treating dry eye syndrome (one of the symptoms of computer eyestrain).²

2015

In order to evaluate the efficacy of omega-3 fatty acids in treating computer eye syndrome, researchers used standard measures of dry eye symptoms - the Schirmer test, the time it takes the tear film to degrade, and conjunctival impression cytology, which is a test to evaluate the surface cells of the surface of the eye. ¹

Almost 500 patients who had been using computer for at least 3 hours a day for at least a year were randomly divided into a test group and a control group. The control group was given capsules containing olive oil. The test group were given capsules containing 180mg EPA and 120mg DHA.

After 3 months there was a distinct difference in the test scores demonstrating that oral omega-3s are helpful for dry eye symptoms that result from computer eye strain.¹

Another study with older women showed reduced risk of dry eye syndrome with a high dietary intake of omega-3 fatty acids.³

1. Bhargava, R., Kumar, P., Phogat, H., Kaur, A., Kumar, M. (2015). Oral omega-3 fatty acids treatment in computer vision syndrome related dry eye, Con Lens Ant Eye, Jun;38(3):206-10.
2. Gatell-Tortajada, J. (2016). Oral supplementation with a nutraceutical formulation containing omega-3 fatty acids, vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants in a large series of patients with dry eye symptoms: results of a prospective study. Clin Interv Aging, May 19;11:571-8.
3. Ribelles, A., Galbis-Estrada, C., Parras, M.A., Vivar-Llopis, B. Marco-Ramirez, C., et al. (2015). Ocular Surface and Tear Film Changes in Older Women Working with Computers, Biomed Res Int, 2015:467039.