Vitamin E is necessary to protect your eyes against cell damage as well as dry eye. This vitamin is prominently found in sunflower oil, mackerel, wheat germ oil, peppers, spinach, mangos and redcurrants.
Vitamin A deficiency, which usually occurs in developing countries, can cause an increase in dry eye. By adding foods rich in Vitamin A, like carrots, pumpkins, apricots, spinach, tomatoes, dairy products and liver, you can prevent the development of this condition.
It has been found that vitamin A can help prevent dry eye and the vitamin is often included in prescription eye drops. It's also been found that vitamin B12 supplements, in addition to artificial tears, can help improve symptoms of dry eyes.
A deficiency of vitamin D was linked to a decreased tear break-up time, lower Schirmer test values, tear hyperosmolarity, and tear film dysfunction, eventually suggesting a probable association with dry eye symptoms [114,115].
Magnesium helps facilitate over 300 biochemical reactions in the body. A deficiency in this nutrient is links to the occurrence of dry eyes. Magnesium deficiency is linked to other ocular diseases as well, such as glaucoma, cataract and diabetic retinopathy.
Like many nutrients, the amount of vitamin D needed varies with age, and people over 70 may need more. "Taking some vitamin D is OK for an aging population," says Sporny, "but too much vitamin D can cause damage to blood vessels, eye tissue and kidneys."
Severe dry eyes, if left untreated, can cause eye inflammation, corneal abrasion, corneal ulcers, and vision loss.
Poor blinking habits while reading or looking at a computer screen for long periods of time. A dry, indoor environment. Contact lenses. Certain medications (including tranquilizers, antihistamines, certain heart medications, diuretics, birth control pills and ulcer medications).
Research studies confirm that Manuka honey is an effective treatment for a range of eye conditions, including dry eye relief. It achieves this by lowering the pH and reducing bacterial overgrowth and inflammation, thereby stabilising the surface of the eye.
Virgin coconut oil is great for those with dry eyes, as it creates a protective layer over the tear film layers, resulting in reduced evaporation. Furthermore, coconut oil has antibacterial, antifungal, antimicrobial, anti-parasitic, antiviral and anti-inflammatory properties.
There's no set time of day that's best to take vitamin D supplements. Some people say taking vitamin D supplements at night is an insomnia risk. There's no research to confirm this, but you might want to take your supplement earlier in the day if you think it's screwing with your sleep.
Magnesium deficiency is diagnosed via a blood test and sometimes a urine test. Your doctor may order the blood test if you have symptoms such as weakness, irritability, abnormal heart rhythm, nausea and/or diarrhoea, or if you have abnormal calcium or potassium levels.
Egg Yolk
It can help protect from dry eye syndrome as well. Vitamin A eye drops are even used as a direct treatment for dry eyes. In addition to Vitamin A, egg yolks pack even more of a punch when it comes to taking care of your eyes. In them you will also find lutein, zeaxanthin, and omega-3 fatty acids.
Potassium and Zinc
Studies have shown that patients suffering from dry eyes are often low on potassium in the body, which doctors believe may have a correlation to their eye health.
Treatments for Mild Dry Eye:
Avoid dehydration by drinking plenty of water. Staying hydrated helps produce natural tears more effectively. Avoid excessive amounts of caffeine, which has a drying/diuretic effect.