Omega-3 Fatty Acid-Rich Diet Could Reduce Childhood Myopia Risk

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