Recent evidence shows that oral supplements of omega-3 essential fatty acids can improve the signs and symptoms of dry eye. Omega 3 fatty acids, such as those found in fish oils and other supplements, can help patients with dry eye. Specifically, re-esterified omega 3 fatty acids from dietary supplements, perhaps due to an increased bioavailability of essential fatty acids.
The International Dry Eye Workshop and International Workshop on Meibomian Gland Dysfunction recommends Omega-3 fatty acid supplementation as primary therapy for the treatment of dry eye due to meibomian gland dysfunction (MGD). MGD has also been associated with high cholesterol.