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Dry eyes – 5 foods that can help in managing the symptoms

Dry eyes – 5 foods that can help in managing the symptoms

Dry eyes syndrome is a condition in which the tears are unable to provide adequate moisture to the eyes. This leads to red, dry, and inflamed eyes, which can cause discomfort and sensitivity toward light. The condition is particularly common in seniors and women in the postmenopausal phase. Although the condition has treatment options, adding specific types of foods to your daily meals can also help in managing the symptoms.

Fish
One of the key ingredients that makes fish an ideal food to manage dry eyes is Omega 3. These fatty acids are responsible for keeping the tear film in the eyes hydrated and moisturized, which helps in lubricating the eyes. They also have anti-inflammatory properties that help reduce the inflammation caused by dry eyes. One can include fish like mackerel, salmon, herring, cod, and trout in their daily meals.

Green vegetables
Vegetables like kale, broccoli, spinach, potatoes, carrots, pumpkins, Brussel sprouts, peppers are beneficial for eye health as they contain various vitamins like E, C, B12, B6, B2, along with vitamin A. Deficiency in these vitamins can lead to damage to the surface of the eyes, which can further result in complications. These vitamins are needed for cell repair, proper functioning of the tear film, and for providing lubrication to the eyes.

Dairy products
Dairy products contain crucial antioxidants like lutein and zeaxanthin. They are responsible for keeping the eyes healthy and preventing chronic conditions like dry eyes. Eggs are a rich source of these antioxidants; yogurt and milk contain vitamin A and zinc. Cheese contains vitamin A, which is responsible for protecting the surface of the eye.

Fruits
Eating fruits like oranges, lemon, berries, grapefruit can also be helpful in maintaining good eye health. Blueberries, in particular, are a good source of the antioxidant anthocyanin, which is known to improve vision and provide eye protection. Apart from citrus fruits, one can also consider eating bananas regularly. They are filled with potassium, which is an important part of the tear film. Potassium also helps in strengthening the film.

Beans and seeds
Legumes like kidney beans and lima beans are known for being rich in zinc. Furthermore, flaxseeds contain Omega 3 fatty acids, which are highly beneficial for eye health. Wheat germ is another pantry staple to have, as it has vitamin E, which prevents eye damage over time.

Along with making nutritional changes, one can use treatment options for better symptom management. This includes using RESTASIS® eye drops that help in keeping the eyes lubricated by increasing tear production. Another option is CEQUA® ophthalmic dry eye drops that help in a similar manner. You can find coupons for these cyclosporine eye drops for dry eyes and get discounts at most of the pharmacies.

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