Fish oil comes to eyesight's rescue

London: According to a new study, taking fish oil every day can keep eyesight troubles at bay.

Omega-3 fatty acids have been known to prevent cardiovascular diseases like heart attacks and strokes and now, this polyunsaturated fat, most commonly found in cold-water fish like sardines, salmon and mackerel as well as some nuts and seeds, has been found to ward off debilitating 'dry eye' syndrome, the Mirror reported.

And because it also boosts contrast sensitivity, an important measure of visual function in situations of low light or fog, omega-3 could keep you safe when negotiating dark roads too.

Researchers found that omega-3 oil supplements can improve dry eye by as much as 105 per cent.

David Allamby, a world-renowned specialist and laser eye surgeon, revealed that tear film has a layer of oil that helps keep water on the surface of the eye and if people are deficient in omega-3s, they may suffer dry, uncomfortable eyes.

He added that cold water fish like salmon, mackerel, herring, tuna are best, adding "Or flaxseed oil is a good vegetarian alternative. I give my patients flaxseed oil supplements before and after laser eye surgery, to improve the quality of their eyes and their vision."

The findings have been unveiled at the American Society of Cataract and Refractive Surgery Symposium in San Diego, USA.