Dry eye syndrome, or sicca, is an inflammatory condition that may be mediated by autoimmune mechanisms. It results in loss of normal tear and hydration solution production by the eye. It is a relatively common condition that affects mainly women. There is not an abundance of information concerning risks and protective factors against the development of dry eye syndrome.
One of the largest health studies to date, the Women's Health Study enrolled over 30,000 women to study various relationships between dietary and nutrient factors and disease. A cohort study within the Women's Health Study examined the relationship (if any) between essential fatty acids and dry eye syndrome. The results of the study were published in the October issue of American Journal of Clinical Nutrition (2005).
The cohort study involved 32,470 women from the Women's Health Study. Out of these 4.7% had dry eye syndrome diagnosed by self report and clinical symptoms. Fatty acid intake was assessed using food frequency questionnaires. Relative intakes of omega three and omega six fatty acids were analyzed and compared to incidence of dry eye syndrome.
The study found that a higher ratio of omega 6 to omega 3 fatty acids increases the risk of developing dry eye syndrome. A high intake of omega 3 fatty acids was associated with a lower risk, and specifically intake of tuna was inversely associated with dry eye syndrome.
The results of this study supports the previously held belief that omega 3 fatty acids are anti-inflammatory and may modulate autoimmune disease. There is still some question about the overlap between autoimmune disease and inflammation. Foods higher in omega 3 fatty acids such as fish, flax, and seeds may decrease ones risk for developing dry eye syndrome. This can also be balanced by eating foods high in omega 6 fatty acids less often, namely animal meats.
Posted by Kristopher Foster on March 9, 2006 02:30 PM
