Nutrition News

This case presentation suggests that severe keratoconus can be improved by using aspheric gas-permeable contact lenses in a superior-to-intermediate corneal alignment fit, and that visual therapy and nutritional supplementation may also play a role.

Although clinical studies have not yet proven that nutritional supplements play a role in glaucoma, optometrists are increasingly interested in discovering alternative therapies for this disease. Supplements such as ginkgo biloba, resveratrol, fish oil and co-enzyme Q10 are among the most promising treatments, according to our sources.

For many years, the logical treatment for dry eyes has been to attempt to supplement the tear film with additional lubrication. The science of lubrication has come a long way and now we realize that it is more than just “adding moisture” to resolve this problem. New methods of treatment have included enhanced artificial tears, punctum plugs, lipid layer enhancements, tear quality enhancements and epithelial surface treatments.

As an increasing number of clinical studies are being performed to test the effectiveness of nutrients on eye health, the Optometric Nutrition Society (ONS) has formed in an attempt to evaluate this information and educate optometrists.

As an increasing number of clinical studies are being performed to test the effectiveness of nutrients on eye health, the Optometric Nutrition Society (ONS) has formed in an attempt to evaluate this information and educate optometrists.

While the market for nutritional supplements designed to help manage posterior pole disease grows, many clinicians initially recommend specific foods to address vitamin-deficient diets.

Jeffrey Anshel

The use of dietary supplements is extremely common, with one out of every five Americans taking at least one daily. However, while these supplements provide a variety of benefits, high doses may result in potentially dangerous ocular side effects. Practitioners should be aware of any ocular contraindications of supplements and question patients about their vitamin regimens.

DALLAS – Here at the Southwest Council of Optometry meeting, Primary Care Optometry News gathered a group of clinicians to compare their approaches to counseling patients on the role of nutrition and supplementation in preventing or slowing the progression of age-related eye diseases. The panelists discussed antioxidants, zinc and omega-3s and their effect on eye disease, including dry eye.

In recent years, increased emphasis has been placed on the role of nutrition in ocular health. Through vitamin supplementation and improved dietary habits, patients can combat and prevent a variety of ocular anomalies.