Could omega-3 help protect children’s eyes? What a new study means for families managing myopia
- Richard Kadri-Langford
- 14 minutes ago
- 2 min read
A large new study from Hong Kong has found that children who consumed more omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids were less likely to be myopic, suggesting diet may play a helpful role alongside proven myopia management. The research, published in the British Journal of Ophthalmology (Dietary omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids as a protective factor of myopia: the Hong Kong Children Eye Study), adds to a growing body of evidence linking overall health and eye growth.
What are omega-3 fatty acids?
Omega-3s are essential fats that our bodies need but can’t make efficiently. The two most important types for eye and brain health are EPA and DHA. They are found naturally in oily fish (such as salmon, sardines, and mackerel) and in algae. Plant sources like flaxseed, chia, and walnuts provide ALA, which the body can convert to EPA and DHA, though the conversion is limited. DHA is a key structural fat in the retina, and omega-3s have anti-inflammatory properties that may support healthy tissues at the back of the eye.
What did the Hong Kong study find?
In this large, population-based study of school-aged children, higher intake of dietary omega-3s was linked with a lower chance of having myopia. In simple terms, children who regularly ate foods rich in omega-3s tended to be less short-sighted than those who consumed less.
It’s important to note:
This type of research shows association, not proof of cause and effect.
The authors considered other factors that influence myopia, such as near work, outdoor time, and parental myopia, but no single study can capture everything.
The findings support, rather than replace, established myopia control strategies.
Why this matters for parents
Myopia (short-sightedness) is rising worldwide and often begins in childhood. Once myopia develops, the eye can continue to elongate, increasing the lifetime risk of complications like retinal detachment, myopic maculopathy, and glaucoma. That’s why myopia management is so important: the goal is not just to correct blur, but to slow eye growth and reduce future risk.
Evidence-based myopia management can include:
Specially designed spectacles or soft contact lenses for myopia control
Overnight orthokeratology (ortho-k) lenses
Low-dose atropine eye drops
Lifestyle changes such as more outdoor time and smart near-work habits
Diet is not a stand-alone treatment for myopia, but nourishing the eye with omega-3s may be a helpful addition to a comprehensive plan recommended by your eye care professional.
The Hong Kong Children Eye Study suggests that omega-3s may be a protective factor against myopia in children. While diet alone won’t stop myopia, adding omega-3-rich foods is a simple, family-friendly step that may support eye health alongside proven treatments. Think of it as another tool in your toolkit—together with outdoor time, good visual habits, and a tailored myopia management plan from your eye care professional.
For more guidance and resources on managing childhood myopia, visit our complete guide on myopia control.
Dietary omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids as a protective factor of myopia: the Hong Kong Children Eye Study
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