As far as I know, tears are water, salt and protein (OK, probably some fatty stuff - surfactants - too, I admit)
So ... "In God we trust, all others bring data".
I'd love to know what consuming the "right" fatty acids has to do with dry eyes or tear production.
I'd have been with you, FZ, but it appears even Mayo Clinic has given it a glance:
"Omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids may help relieve dry eyes symptoms. These fatty acids, found in fish and vegetable oils, are thought to reduce inflammation in the body. In theory, increasing the amount of omega-3 fatty acids in your diet could reduce eye inflammation. More study is needed to prove this theory. But if you're interested in trying omega-3 fatty acids, discuss the benefits and risks with your doctor."
I have used a Venta humidifier for years, both for me and because I have a grand piano, its kept us both healthy
It's not terribly expensive. Just earlier today, I bought a 1 liter bottle of distilled water from Migros for .80 CHF. They also had a bigger bottle (maybe 2 liters) for 1.30 CHF. It was sold near the household cleaning products.
But we actually use cold tap water in our humidifier, which my husband probably needlessly paid about 400 CHF for! There is a also a specific liquid product sold for decalcifying humidifiers. I can't seem to find ours right now, though, to tell you the brand name.
Humidifiers are also great for helping to loosen "bronchial secretions" when you have a cold. I have a smaller cold mist one that I use in my toddler's room, when he's sick.
As for the dry eyes... I can't help but wonder if your tear ducts are okay. I was actually born with my tear ducts closed and was scheduled to have an operation as a baby, but then they thankfully opened on their own. I'm sure you know this already, but be sure to keep yourself well-hydrated. My eyes tend to get really dry when I haven't been drinking enough water. My doctor has told me that adults are supposed to drink 2 liters per day.
Hope you find something to help...
I was scared that it was going to be very dry and got one, but I haven't been using it much. Maybe I should sell it here.
Adrian, when do you want a replacement for yours?
If you have underfloor heating, put a bowl of water under your bed.
Air your apartment by, erm, opening windows!
I assume much of the issue comes into play when you're at home?
Do the spiders and dust bunnies get thirsty?
I have used a humidifier for years. Would not get through the winter without...keeps you from getting sick, helps your skin so must help your eyes. Not sure if it helps with your dry eyes however if there is an underlying medical problem. My eye doctor says dry eyes are very common as you get older. There are different kind of eye drops with some being longer lasting. Suggest you check with your Dr on that front. However, in regard to the humidifier, worth every penny..although some are overkill on what they offer. You don't need a digital high tech one. Simple, high low knob. The newer ones don't get clogged up as the older models did. They have something that prevents the calcium from building up. Good luck.