Hydrogen-producing milk to prevent reduction in tear stability in persons using visual display terminals

Area of Science:

• Ophthalmology
• Microbiology
• Nutrition

Background:

• Dry eye disease is a prevalent condition affecting millions globally, often linked to oxidative stress.
• Visual display terminal use is a significant risk factor for developing or exacerbating dry eye symptoms.
• Intestinal microbiota can produce hydrogen (H2), a known antioxidant.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the efficacy of H2-producing milk in preventing dry eye disease.
• To assess the impact of H2-producing milk on tear film stability and ocular oxidative stress.

Main Methods:

• A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study was conducted with 54 participants experiencing mild-to-moderate dry eye.
• Participants consumed either H2-producing milk or a placebo daily for three weeks.
• Key metrics included tear film breakup time (fTBUT), Schirmer's test, tear 8-OHdG concentration, and symptom questionnaires.

Main Results:

• The H2-producing milk group showed a significantly greater improvement in fTBUT compared to the placebo group.
• A decline in fTBUT was observed in the placebo group, but not in the H2-producing milk group.
• A positive correlation was found between H2 production and fTBUT improvement, particularly in young females, along with a negative correlation with oxidative stress markers.

Conclusions:

• H2-producing milk may help maintain tear stability and prevent short fTBUT-type dry eye.
• The findings suggest H2-producing milk could be a novel strategy to mitigate dry eye by reducing oxidative stress in the lacrimal functional unit.