Can changing my diet help my dry eye?

While the science behind popular supplements like fish oil to help treat dry eye is inconclusive so far, many eye doctors agree that there are things you can add to your diet that may improve your overall eye health and potentially ease symptoms of dry eye.

Medically reviewed on September 23, 2025

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Published on February 10, 2026

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4 minute read

The potential connection between diet and dry eyes

Chronic discomfort from dry eye disease can really impact your quality of life—it may be hard to work, drive a vehicle, or be present for your friends and family when your eyes are bothering you. While artificial tears and medications are common treatments prescribed by eye doctors, many wonder if adjusting their diet can help them ease their dry eye symptoms. The good news? Your diet can have an impact on the health of your body as a whole, and your eyes are no exception. As part of a wider treatment plan, there is some evidence that making dietary changes may help to reduce the symptoms of dry eye.

Are omega-3 fatty acids fishy?

No scientific consensus

One of the most popular dietary supplements for helping with dry eye symptoms is omega-3. Unfortunately, there’s no strong evidence that supplementing omega-3s helps with dry eye. One study found no difference between those taking fish oil supplements and those taking placebo, while another study showed a link but relied on self-reported information, which can be unreliable.

Don’t throw away the omega-3 supplements just yet

While there is no proven link between omega-3s and dry eye relief, it may not be a good idea to abandon your omega-3 supplement altogether. Chronic inflammation is a root cause of dry eye disease, and omega-3s have been known to have some anti-inflammatory effect in the body. They may also increase the quality of your tears. The trick is finding a high-quality supplement. Try to find a supplement that has high levels of eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), as well as the essential fatty acid gamma linolenic acid (GLA). EPA, DHA, and GLA are important because they are the precursors to the anti-inflammatory components in fatty acids. GLA is key because it targets the inflammatory markers in the eye specifically.

Sources of Omega-3s

Fish oil
Algal oil
Flaxseeds
Chia seeds
Walnuts

Don’t forget your vitamins

Whether you get them in a bottle or from your food, there are a few vitamins that may help improve your eye health and your symptoms of dry eye overall. Here’s a list of some of the vitamins to focus on, but remember that a balanced diet includes many more vitamins and minerals.

Vitamin A

Believe it or not, dry eyes can be related to low Vitamin A levels. It’s best absorbed through diet, and can be found in orange veggies and leafy greens like:

Carrots
Sweet potatoes
Spinach
Kale

Vitamin C

This powerful antioxidant helps prevent damage to the surface of the eye and may improve tear film stability. It can be found in:

Oranges
Lemons
Grapefruits
Apples
Blueberries

Vitamin D

Vitamin D is known for its role in reducing inflammation. Some studies suggest that low vitamin D levels may be linked to dry eye symptoms, especially in people with autoimmune conditions. To boost your vitamin D levels naturally, consider:

Salmon
Milk
Egg yolks

Stay hydrated

It may come as a surprise, but tears are made in large part of water. In order for your body to make tears, it needs water. If you struggle to stay hydrated during the day, start carrying around a water bottle. Try to reach at least 64 oz per day, and more if you work a grueling job.

Talk to your eye doctor for their recommendations

Nobody knows your eye history better than your eye doctor. If you have questions about your diet and how it can help your eye health or dry eye, talk to them. They can make recommendations based on the latest science and follow up with you to find out how things are going.

Find an eye doctor

FAQs

Frequently asked questions

What are the best supplements for dry eye?

The best supplements for you depend on your diet and your body’s needs, so your doctor would be the best person to talk to for supplement recommendations. They may guide you towards vitamin A, vitamin D, antioxidants like lutein and zeaxanthin, and omega-3s (though there’s no strong evidence linking omega-3s to dry eye relief).

What vitamins can help with dry eye?

Vitamins A, C, and D are commonly recommended for overall eye health and may help relieve or prevent dry eye symptoms as well.

Is fish oil good for dry eye?

Fish oil, which contains omega-3 fatty acids, is often used to help with dry eye symptoms. However, recent studies and expert opinions indicate that the scientific evidence supporting fish oil's effectiveness is inconclusive. While some people report relief, it’s not guaranteed, and more research is needed to confirm its benefits.

Is there a connection between dry eye and diet?

Yes, diet can influence dry eye symptoms. Consuming foods rich in vitamins A, C, and D, may impact your dry eye symptoms, as highlighted in the article above. While omega-3 fatty acids are popular, current evidence doesn’t conclusively prove they provide dry eye relief. Overall, maintaining a balanced diet with nutrient-rich foods can help support your eyes but should be part of a broader treatment plan.

Is there a natural cure for dry eye?

There’s no definitive natural cure for dry eye disease. Home remedies like warm compresses, eyelid hygiene, and dietary adjustments may help manage symptoms temporarily. For persistent or severe cases, professional medical treatment may be necessary. It’s important to consult an eye care specialist for a proper diagnosis and tailored treatment plan.