Just Ask Terry

Terry is happy to provide his opinion on diet and nutrition, supplements and lifestyle choices. This information is for educational purposes only. It is not meant to replace the advice of your physician and is not to be considered medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Should you have any concerns please contact your physician directly.

Q. Dear Terry, “I suffer from chronic dry eyes. My eye doctor has recommended a prescription medication called Restasis®. I have seen the list of possible side effects and am leery about taking it. Do you know of any natural alternatives that may help? Thanks!” — Kathy F., Green Bay, WI

A. Dear Kathy, Nothing is more uncomfortable than having red, itchy, irritated eyes. The eyes depend on constant moisture and lubrication to maintain vision and comfort. Dry eyes occur when your tears, which are comprised of oil, water, and mucous, aren’t able to provide adequate moisture for your eyes. Dry eyes can also be caused by situations that dry out the tear film. This can be due to dry air from air conditioning, heat, or other environmental conditions. Other factors that may cause dry eyes include the natural aging process (especially menopause), side effects from prescription medications, as well as conditions such as Sjögren’s syndrome.

For eye dryness, I recommend trying Sea buckthorn (Hippophae rhamnoides) oil. The fruit of the sea buckthorn, a hardy plant native to Europe and Asia, has been called a “nutrient bomb” because it is so rich in flavonoids, vitamins, and other beneficial compounds. The seeds contain exceptionally high omega fatty acids, including the rare Omega-7 fatty acid (palmitoleic acid). There are excellent studies on sea buckthorn oil that is taken internally in softgel capsules to reduce dryness of the eye, as well as dryness of the mouth and vagina, or any other dry mucous membrane. There are also clinical studies using sea buckthorn oil for Sjögren’s syndrome, which is a difficult autoimmune disease that causes excessive mucous membrane (especially mouth and eye) dryness. I would suggest taking 500-2,000 mg daily.

I would also recommend adding a group of plant compounds called carotenoids to your daily regimen. Numerous clinical studies have demonstrated their ability to preserve healthy eye function. I recommend a formula that contains a natural astaxanthin complex with at least 2% astaxanthin, along with other carotenoids like lutein, canthaxanthin and beta carotene, as well as a black currant extract standardized to more than 25% anthocyanins. A powerful natural antioxidant, black currant helps to protect the eyes from the damaging effects of free radicals. I would suggest taking 2-3 capsules of this blend daily.

You may also want to consider adding curcumin and omega-3 fatty acids to further support your vision, as well as enhance your overall health.

Healthy Regards!

Terry . . . Naturally