Omega-3 supplements and vision: results vary by age and condition
A review found mixed vision-related results across life stages. Findings were generally more favorable in school-age children and some dry eye studies, but a consistent benefit remains unestablished.
Based on the published abstract. The full paper may contain additional methods, results and limitations.
The 30-second takeaway
Across controlled trials in people at different life stages, omega-3 supplements produced inconsistent vision-related results. Pregnant women, infants and older adults had conflicting findings, while preschool and school-age studies were mostly positive. Adult results depended on the condition studied, with dry eye studies often favorable. This does not establish a consistent benefit for everyone.
The abstract does not provide trial-level outcomes, effect estimates, follow-up lengths or specific control treatments. It also leaves unresolved the difference between mixed infant findings and its more favorable conclusion.
Different ages, different results
The review asked about visual health across the lifespan, rather than one eye condition. Its results section describes positive and null studies in equal numbers for pregnancy, infancy and older age, making those groups especially difficult to summarize.
A conclusion that needs clarification
The conclusion is more favorable about infant visual development than the mixed infant results suggest. School-age findings were described as especially positive among children with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, a subgroup that should remain separate from children generally.
The original publication
Impact of n-3 polyunsaturate fatty acids supplementation on visual health throughout the life cycle: A systematic review.
Tabilo C, Squella V, Illesca P et al.
Prostaglandins Leukot Essent Fatty Acids · 2025
- PubMed ID
- 40499235
- Record checked
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