What to eat for dry eye syndrome

Foods suitable for people with dry eye syndrome generally include carrots, blueberries, deep-sea fish, eggs, and spinach. Detailed explanations are as follows:

1. Carrots: Carrots are rich in beta-carotene, which the body converts into vitamin A. Vitamin A helps maintain the health of the ocular mucosa, reduces evaporation of moisture from the eye surface, and alleviates symptoms of dry eyes such as dryness and foreign body sensation. They can be easily incorporated into daily meals with other ingredients.

2. Blueberries: Blueberries are high in anthocyanins, which help protect blood vessels in the eyes, promote ocular blood circulation, and improve nutrient supply to the eye surface. For individuals with dry eye syndrome, blueberries can help reduce eye fatigue, enhance the eye's adaptability to dry environments, and relieve discomfort.

3. Deep-sea fish: Deep-sea fish (such as salmon and cod) are rich in Omega-3 fatty acids. These fatty acids help regulate ocular inflammatory responses, stimulate tear production, and improve tear quality. Regular consumption can alleviate symptoms like dryness and burning sensations in dry eye patients, providing essential nutritional support for the eyes.

4. Eggs: Egg yolks contain lutein, zeaxanthin, and vitamin A. Lutein and zeaxanthin help protect the retina and reduce the impact of external stimuli on the eyes, while vitamin A helps maintain a moist ocular surface. Consuming eggs supports improvement of dry eye symptoms from multiple angles and is a common nutritious food choice.

5. Spinach: Spinach contains lutein, vitamin C, and vitamin E. Vitamins C and E enhance the eye’s antioxidant capacity, reducing damage to ocular surface cells, while lutein supports overall eye health. Dry eye patients who consume spinach benefit from a variety of nutrients that help relieve eye discomfort.

Patients with dry eye syndrome should avoid spicy and high-salt foods to prevent worsening of bodily dryness. They should also minimize prolonged use of electronic devices and ensure adequate eye rest. If symptoms do not improve after dietary adjustments, they should seek medical attention promptly and consider professional treatments to manage dry eye issues effectively.