Title : Protein and mineral malnutrition in military personnel and its association with dry eye syndrome
Abstract:
Military personnel are frequently faced with environmental challenges and operational demands.These barriers increase vulnerability to nutrient deficiencies including minerals and proteins imbalance. Such nutrient deprivation can make a disadvantageous impact on ocular wellness,especially in the scope of dry eye syndrome which is a complex condition distinguished as tear film instability and damage of ocular surface. This disorder is usually exacerbated by common conditions in military settings as inflammatory and environmental factors including wind,dust exposure and extended screen time.
Fundamental minerals such as zinc,magnesium,selenium and essential proteins play an important role for maintaining the constitutional and functional integrity of the eye surface. The main function of the protein is to maintain cellular regeneration. On the other hand minerals are used as an antioxidant defense and regulators of the immune system. As an example,zinc serves as a cofactor for enzymes which are important in tear production and epithelial stability. Moreover,selenium plays a crucial role in minimizing oxidative damage. Nutrient insufficiency can interfere with tear film,impair healing of cornea and increase state of inflammation. These factors can worsen dry eye syndrome.
Nutritional deficiency is often induced by restricted dietary diversity,increased physical and mental stress and expanded mobilization among military personnel.Various research studies have shown that nutritional deficiencies within military communities are linked with reduced overall performance and overall health. Moreover, distinct significance of ocular disorders like dry eye syndrome has not been explored in detail yet. Progressive evidence proposes that related protein and mineral insufficiencies could alleviate the liability of dry eye syndrome and improve ocular health,which plays an important role in operational efficiency.
This study emphasises the shortage of focused nutritional interventions which include supported supplementation and proper dietary intake in order to sustain ocular health in military settings. Further research studies are necessary to initiate evidence-based guidelines and proper management and prevention plans for patients with dry eye syndrome in military settings. By dealing with these nutritional deficiencies, we can boost not only the visual health but also overall condition and performance of military personnel in high-risk conditions.
