According to a new study published in the journal Frontiers in Nutrition, supplementing with Bilberry and Omega 3 for 3 months could improve severe dry eye symptoms in young and middle-aged adults.
24 individuals below the age of 30 and middle aged (over 48) all with dry eye symptoms, participated in this study. Participants were randomly assigned to receive a supplement containing a Bilberry extract standardized to 150 mg of anthocyanins and 240 mg of DHA a component of the Omega 3 Essential Fatty Acid once a day before breakfast or a placebo. Changes in OSDI (Ocular Surface Disease Index) scores plus NITBUT (non-invasive tear break-up time), PRT (phenol red thread test) and the percentage of meibomian gland openings were used to measure outcomes and were assessed at baseline, month 1 and at month 3.
Improvements in OSDI Scores, NITBUT, PRT and percentage of meibomian gland openings were seen in the group taking the daily supplement for 3 months. These improvements were consistent in both the two age groups. The same improvements were not seen in the group taking the placebo.
Prior clinical studies have shown that bilberry may help relieve eye fatigue while improving tear fluid quality, contrast sensitivity and object focus. Bilberry is native to Europe and is related to the North American blueberry. This anthocyanin rich nutrient (Bilberry) is associated with protecting the optic nerve and the retina from damage and with improving blood flow to the eyes and reducing inflammation. Some research shows Bilberry is a powerful antioxidant with anti-inflammatory properties as well and may be helpful with condition like cataracts, glaucoma, and macular degeneration. Researchers used the Omega 3 in this study because it’s anti inflammatory properties and benefits provided for dry eye relief.
Further studies using different dosages of both these nutrients may be useful to determine if there is a dose dependency effect.
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