Pros and cons of natural food and nutraceuticals for dry eyes

Abstract

AbstractA healthy diet is a choice for help fighting against the most prevalent ocular disorders, among them the ocular surface disease, Getting adequate daily amounts of specific micronutrients, including carotenoids, omega‐3 fatty acids, vitamins, trace metals and others, may diminish the risk of dry eyes. For boosting eye and vision health the following natural food has to be considered: citrus fruits, dairy products, eggs, fish, leafy green vegetables, legumes, meat, nuts, olives‐olive oil, and also orange‐coloured fruits/vegetables. Furthermore, nutritional supplements are important coadyuvants for managing a wide spectrum of chronic‐degenerative ocular diseases. In this communication we will show the audience how to identify appropriate directions for implementing knowledge on the diet and nutrition on the eyes and vision, the potential antioxidant, anti‐inflammatory and neuroprotective effects of natural food (broccoli, tigernuts and walnuts), the role of the Mediterranean Diet, and the state of the art of nutraceutic supplements, that may constitute a promising and highly affordable tool for patients at risk of eye diseases and vision loss. Remember, good nutritional habits at any age are essential for maintaining healthy eyes.