Omega-3s May Keep Your Vision Sharp

Recent research adds to the evidence that omega-3 fatty acids may help preserve your eyesight as you age. In a study from the Archives of Ophthalmology, researchers found that regular consumption omega-3s may help reduce risk of age-related macular degeneration (a leading cause of blindness).

The study involved 38,022 women with no diagnosis of age-related macular degeneration. Over the course of 10 years, the women submitted information about their eating habits (including their intake of the omega-3s). Looking at data at the 10-year follow-up, researchers found that participants who consumed the most docosahexaenoic acid (or DHA, a type of omega-3) had a 38 percent lower risk of developing age-related macular degeneration compared with women who consumed the least DHA.

Available in supplement form, DHA is found naturally in oily fish like salmon, tuna, mackerel, and sardines. Other research shows that DHA may also help fight high blood pressure, keep cholesterol in check, and protect against depression.

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