Omega Fatty Acids: GLA (235 mg) from Black Currant Seed Oil, EPA (100 mg) and DHA (70 mg) from Fish Oil
GLA, a unique and specialized omega-6 fatty acid from black currant seed oil, is found only in ultra trace amounts in the diet. GLA can be converted to the anti-inflammatory prostaglandin, PGE1, which supports normal tear secretion. Clinical studies report that GLA reduces symptoms and calms inflammation in people with dry eye and improves symptoms and increases tear production in people undergoing corrective laser procedures. It also reduces symptoms and increases anti-inflammatory prostaglandin levels in those with Sjögren’s syndrome.

Black currant seed oil also contributes alpha linolenic acid, an important omega-3 fatty acid. A controlled study in healthy older individuals found that black currant seed oil decreased production of the pro-inflammatory prostaglandin, PGE2, and improved immune function compared to a placebo.

Fish oil is a concentrated source of the omega-3 fats EPA and DHA. Higher dietary intake of EPA and DHA may reduce the risk of dry eye, in addition to providing well established cardiovascular benefits. Combining fish oil EPA and DHA with GLA from black currant seed oil in balanced amounts helps block the formation of inflammatory prostaglandins. HydroEye features highest quality USP-verified fish oil from the purest sources.

Vitamin C (240 mg)
Vitamin C is the most abundant water-soluble antioxidant in tear fluid. It acts to neutralize free radicals and helps recharge the antioxidant vitamin E. Biomarkers of oxidative damage are higher in the tear fluid of dry eye patients compared to controls. Levels of vitamin C are also known to drop significantly in the tears of people undergoing laser surgery - procedures known to generate free radical activity. In addition to its free radical fighting role, Vitamin C may also stimulate the formation of less inflammatory prostaglandins from GLA metabolism.

Other Essential Nutrients
HydroEye delivers Vitamin A, an essential nutrient for the health of the epithelial cells of the eye’s cornea and conjunctiva. Vitamin A is also required for the manufacture of mucin, the primary component of the mucous or innermost layer of the tear film. HydroEye contributes mucin, which is secreted by goblet and epithelial cells of the conjunctiva to protect, lubricate and ensure even distribution of tear fluid. Loss of goblet cells has been associated with chronic inflammation of the ocular surface in tear deficient dry eye.

Dietary shortfalls of magnesium and vitamin B6 are not uncommon, especially among women and older individuals (groups in which dry eye commonly occurs). HydroEye includes these nutrients, which are important cofactors for the conversion of linoleic acid from black currant seed oil into GLA. One of the critical catalysts for this conversion is an enzyme whose activity declines with nutrient deficiencies, as well as with age, certain diseases, increased stress hormones and excessive intakes of saturated fats.