Fatty Fish Linked to Lower Myopia Risk in Children, Study Finds
Hong Kong – A new study published in the British Journal of Ophthalmology suggests a link between higher consumption of omega-3 fatty acids, particularly from fatty fish, and a reduced risk of myopia (nearsightedness) in children. Researchers examined the dietary habits and eye health of 1,005 school children aged 6-8 in Hong Kong,finding that 27.5 percent were already myopic.
The study revealed children with higher intakes of omega-3 – sourced especially from salmon, mackerel, and sardines – exhibited better eye measurements and less severe myopia. Conversely, higher consumption of saturated fats, found in foods like butter, palm oil, and red meat, correlated with a greater risk of developing the condition.
Researchers measured the length of the eye axis (from cornea to retina) as an indicator of myopia progress. Children with lower omega-3 intake had the longest eye axes, while those consuming more omega-3 had the shortest. A shorter eye axis is often associated with healthier vision.
Myopia is a growing global concern, with projections estimating that half the world’s population could be affected by 2050. While heredity, excessive screen time, and limited outdoor activity are known contributing factors, this research suggests nutrition may also play a role.
Researchers hypothesize that omega-3 fatty acids may improve blood flow to the eye, preventing oxygen deficiency that can contribute to myopia.
It’s critically important to note this is an observational study and doesn’t definitively prove a causal relationship. Data was collected through questionnaires, which can be subject to inaccuracies. Furthermore, the high prevalence of myopia in Hong Kong may limit the generalizability of the findings.However, researchers emphasize that incorporating fatty fish into a child’s diet is beneficial due to the established health benefits of omega-3 fatty acids.
https://dx.doi.org/10.1136/bjo-2024-326872
