Evidence supporting the use of: Omega-3 fatty acids
For the health condition: Glaucoma

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Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 2

Omega-3 fatty acids are polyunsaturated fats found primarily in fish oils and certain plant oils. There is emerging scientific interest in their potential role in supporting ocular health, including conditions such as glaucoma. Glaucoma is characterized by progressive optic nerve damage, often associated with increased intraocular pressure (IOP). Some animal and small human studies have suggested that omega-3 fatty acids may help reduce IOP, potentially due to their anti-inflammatory properties and effects on blood flow to the optic nerve. A few clinical trials have shown that diets higher in omega-3 (relative to omega-6) may be associated with a lower risk of developing glaucoma or with modest reductions in IOP.

However, the body of evidence is limited and somewhat inconsistent. Most studies are small, short-term, or observational, and there is no consensus on the efficacy or optimal dosing of omega-3 fatty acids for glaucoma management. Major ophthalmological organizations do not currently endorse omega-3 fatty acids as a primary or adjunctive therapy for glaucoma. Nonetheless, because of their general cardiovascular benefits and low risk of adverse effects, some clinicians may recommend omega-3 supplementation as part of an overall healthy diet for individuals at risk for glaucoma. In summary, while there is some scientific rationale and early evidence for the use of omega-3 fatty acids in supporting glaucoma treatment, stronger and larger clinical trials are needed to establish their true effectiveness.

More about omega-3 fatty acids
More about Glaucoma

Other health conditions supported by omega-3 fatty acids

Acne
Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome
Addictions (drugs)
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Aging (prevention)
Alcoholism
Allergies (food)
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Attention Deficit Disorder
Autism
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Backache
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Birth Defects (prevention)
Blood Clots (prevention of)
Bloodshot Eyes
Body Building
Broken Bones
Bulimia
Cancer (natural therapy for)
Cancer (prevention)
Cancer Treatment (reducing side effects)
Canker Sores
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Cholesterol (high)
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Concentration (poor)
Concussions
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Congestive Heart Failure
Dementia
Depression
Diabetes
Dysmenorrhea
Eczema
Emotional Sensitivity
Endometriosis
Epilepsy
Exercise
Eye Problems
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Eyesight (poor)
Fat Metabolism (poor)
Fatigue
Fatty Liver Disease
Fibrosis
Free Radical Damage
Glaucoma
Gout
Hair (loss or thinning)
Hair Care (general)
Hashimoto's Disease
Hearing Loss
Heart (weakness)
Heart Fibrillation or Palpitations
Hepatitis
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Infertility
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Menopause
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Parkinson's Disease
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PMS Type D
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Polyps
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Rosacea
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