Benefits of Flaxseed Oil for Eyes

Flaxseed oil is an excellent source of omega-3 fatty acids, usually found in fatty fishes such as salmon and tuna. Omega-3 fatty acids have been linked with many health benefits when taken as a dietary supplement. Flaxseed oil has been linked with treating and preventing dry eyes as well as macular degeneration.

Dry Eyes

• One of the main benefits associated with flaxseed oil is the ability to treat dry eyes. Dry eyes, or dry eye syndrome, can be associated with allergies, eye surgery or any number of other problems that cause eyes to not produce enough tears. A study presented at the 2006 American Society of Cataract and Refractive Surgery annual meeting, suggested that patients who were suffering from dry eyes due to Lasik eye surgery and treated with flaxseed oil alleviated the symptoms as efficiently as a prescribed antibiotic meant to do the same thing. Omega-3 fatty acids help the oil glands in the eye produce the proper consistency of oil so that tears have something to stick to on the outer layer of the eye, instead of just evaporating.

Macular Degeneration

• An August 2001 Harvard study printed in "Archives of Ophthalmology" showed that omega-3 fatty acids can help to prevent and reduce the risk of macular degeneration of the eyes. Macular degeneration causes vision to worsen by damaging nerve cells of the eyes. Studies showing higher intake of omega-3 fatty acids and lower intake of omega-6 fatty acids reveal a lower likelihood of developing macular degeneration. The University of Maryland Medical Center website warns however that more research is needed to determine whether flaxseed oil provides the same benefits as other forms of omega-3 fatty acids for preventing macular degeneration.

Forms

• Flaxseed oil is one of the highest recommended forms of ingesting omega-3 fatty acids. It comes in oil form, oil capsules and whole or ground flax seeds. To properly digest the seeds they must first be ground, but it is suggested to add them to fruit shakes, yogurt or honey.

Dosage

• The University of Maryland Medical Center website recommends one to two tablespoons of flaxseed oil daily or one to two capsules. If you prefer to grind your own flax seeds instead, this translates to approximately 1/4 cup of ground flax seeds per day.

Other Benefits

• Flaxseed oil, like other fish oils and supplements high in omega-3 fatty acids, is thought to have numerous health benefits beyond its benefits to eye health. It has been noted to also aid in treating or preventing acne, dry skin, psoriasis, cancer, heart disease, inflammation and arthritis. It is also suggested that flaxseed oil can aid in weight loss, fetal development for pregnant women and supporting a healthy immune system.