Omega-3 Fatty Acid-Rich Diet Could Reduce Childhood Myopia Risk
A diet rich in omega-3 fatty acids from fish oils may help reduce the risk of myopia in children, according to recent research. Higher omega-3 intake is associated with shorter eye axial length and less nearsightedness, offering a potential dietary strategy to combat rising myopia rates worldwide.
A recent study suggests that consuming a diet high in omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs), predominantly found in fish oils, may play a protective role against the development of myopia, or shortsightedness, in children. Conducted as part of the Hong Kong Children Eye Study, the research involved 1,005 Chinese children aged 6 to 8 years old and examined how dietary intake influences eye health.
The study assessed the children's vision through standard tests and analyzed their diets via food frequency questionnaires completed with parental assistance. These questionnaires covered a broad range of foods, including cereals, vegetables, fruits, meats, dairy, and fats. The researchers then calculated nutrient intake levels, including omega-3s, saturated fats, and other components.
Findings revealed that approximately 27.5% of the children had myopia. Importantly, higher dietary intake of omega-3 fatty acids was linked to decreased myopia risk. Specifically, children in the highest intake group exhibited shorter axial lengths—the measurement from the front to the back of the eye—a key indicator of myopia progression. Additionally, their refractive error measurements indicated less nearsightedness compared to children with lower omega-3 intake.
Conversely, a higher intake of saturated fats was associated with longer axial lengths and more severe myopia. These results suggest that omega-3s might help prevent or slow myopia development, potentially by promoting better blood flow within the eye's choroid layer, which supplies nutrients and oxygen essential for eye health.
However, the researchers emphasize that this is an observational study, meaning it cannot establish causality. The dietary data relied on self-reported questionnaires, which have limitations, and no blood tests were performed to confirm nutrient levels. Furthermore, since myopia prevalence is particularly high in Hong Kong and East Asia, additional research is needed to determine if these findings apply to other populations.
In summary, increasing intake of omega-3 fatty acids through diet may serve as a protective factor against myopia in children, highlighting the importance of balanced nutrition for eye health.
Source: https://medicalxpress.com/news/2025-08-diet-rich-omega-fatty-acids.html
Stay Updated with Mia's Feed
Get the latest health & wellness insights delivered straight to your inbox.
Related Articles
Adherence to the Mediterranean Diet May Improve Symptoms of Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia
Adherence to the Mediterranean diet may improve urinary function and reduce symptoms in men with benign prostatic hyperplasia, offering a promising non-invasive treatment approach.
Can Omega-6 Fatty Acids in Nuts and Vegetable Oils Reduce Heart Disease and Diabetes Risk?
Emerging studies reveal that omega-6 fatty acids, particularly linoleic acid from nuts and vegetable oils, may support heart health and lower diabetes risk. Learn how including these fats in your diet could benefit your cardiometabolic health.
Differences in Dietary Insights from Carbon Isotope Biomarkers in Children and Adults
New research reveals that carbon stable isotope biomarkers effectively measure added sugar intake in adults but are less reliable in young children, influenced by dietary factors like milk consumption. Understanding age-specific dietary biomarkers is crucial for accurate nutritional monitoring.
Skittles Stops Using Controversial Titanium Dioxide Additive
Mars Inc. has removed titanium dioxide from its Skittles candies amid health concerns and regulatory scrutiny, marking a significant shift in food ingredient standards.