Dry eyes can be incredibly irritating, disruptive, and occasionally painful. However, there are a number of remedies available to help alleviate discomfort. Lumify offered by Bausch and Lomb, Ivizia, Cyclosporine, Verkazia, and Restasis can all be taken as medications that help. Aside from medications, however, there are certain foods that can work to prevent dry eyes thanks to their richness in various vitamins and nutrients. Read on to learn more about the 7 best foods that prevent dry eyes:

1. Fish
Omega-3 fatty acids are crucial for retina function and visual development, and fish are full of them. Consuming fish like salmon, tuna, sardines, mackerel, and more, can reduce inflammation and lower the risk of dry eye by 17%. Omega-3 supplements can be a great alternative if fish cannot be consumed.

2. Carrots
Although carrots don’t actually grant night vision or perfect sight, they are rich in beta carotene and Vitamin A, both of which are terrific for the eyes. Beta carotene is converted to Vitamin A by the body and is what gives carrots their striking orange color. Intensely lacking Vitamin A can cause issues like blindness, so make sure to eat your carrots!

3. Citrus fruits
The Vitamin C present in citrus fruits can be great for reducing the risk of eye diseases while also protecting your vision. Fruits like lemons and oranges—both high in Vitamin C—can promote tear production and aid in lubrication thanks to Vitamin C’s status as a tear film component.

4. Eggs
Eggs are a terrific source of nutrients like zeaxanthin, Vitamin E, Vitamin C, zinc, and lutein. Whether your preference is scrambled or fried, these rich nutrients help to prevent dry eyes as well as a whole other slew of issues such as UV damage, cataracts, and more.

5. Water
While it may sound cliche, drinking water is a super important component in preventing dry eyes. Staying hydrated throughout the day can reap great benefits, assisting in tear production and keeping you generally healthy. This is extra crucial if you live in a place that’s dry and hot—eyes can become dry and irritated as a result of dehydration. Remember everyone, six to eight glasses per day!

6. Nuts
Rich in Vitamin E and omega-3, nuts are great for preventing dry eyes. Aside from this, they can also help tackle damage caused by age—one example of this is damage affecting tear production. We recommend incorporating cashews, walnuts, and—though technically defined as legumes—peanuts into your diet.

7. Beans
Are you a vegetarian or can’t eat meat for any other reason? Well, look no further than beans! These little guys are terrific substitutes for meat and contain folate and zinc, the latter of which contributes to melanin production. Melanin works to treat and prevent dry eyes and protect them from damage, such as that caused by the sun.