Boosting eye health with omega-3s and vitamin supplements

Omega-3 fatty acids offer well-known benefits for heart, joint and brain health, as well as the immune system. But did you know they are also vital for eye health? Research has also shown that omega-3s can reduce symptoms of dry eye by improving the eye’s oil film that is produced by small glands on the edge of the eyelid, called the meibomian glands.

Omega-3s come from fish (especially oily fish like salmon, sardines and mackerel), seafood, nuts, seeds and plant oils. Canada’s Food Guide recommends at least two servings (75 grams) of oily fish per week. However, an estimated 72.7% of Canadians consume less than 1 serving of oily fish per week (Statistics Canada 2013), and therefore fall far below these recommendations.

Taking supplements can help compensate for the lack of omega-3 fatty acids in our typical diet. Eyecare professionals often recommend nutritional supplements to boost eye health and reduce symptoms of dry eye and/or inflammation of the eyelids. Supplements may also reduce the severity of the onset of macular degeneration, as well as boost overall general health. We recommend the products below, which are composed of the key omega-3s for eye health and much more!

I-VU^® COMPLETE are the only multi-vitamins on the market today specifically designed to relieve symptoms of dry eye syndrome. The easy-to-swallow gel caps contain key eye-supporting nutrients, such as omega-3s, lutein and vitamin D3. Lutein can help protect against cataracts and macular degeneration, two common age-related eye disorders. Lutein and vitamin D3 have been shown to support and nourish the macular region of the eye, in addition to supporting cognitive health and brain function.

I-VU^® OMEGA-3 PLUS is a new and improved highly purified and concentrated omega-3 supplement designed to provide relief and improve symptoms of dry eye syndrome, including support for proper tear function. I-VU^® OMEGA-3 PLUS also provide the most important EPA, DHA and DPA omega-3 fatty acids, which support cardiovascular health, help reduce inflammation, and maintain healthy triglyceride levels and blood pressure.

Not all omega-3s are created equally. Both I-VU^® COMPLETE and I-VU^® OMEGA-3 PLUS offer omega-3s in their more potent re-esterified triglyceride form (rTG), which allow for improved absorption into the bloodstream and higher efficacy. These products are some of the most advanced on the market, and can be used in combination with a topical dry eye treatment or on their own to boost eye and overall health.

Click here to find out which OPTOPLUS clinics carry I-VU^® COMPLETE and I-VU^® OMEGA-3 PLUS.

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