Loss of Hearing and Nutrition Habits
September 15, 2023Hearing loss is the third most prevalent health issue in America and affects around twenty percent of Americans. People may not notice it at first since it occurs gradually, but hearing loss can result in severe mental and physical health problems such as depression, anxiety, dementia, and cardiovascular disease.
People over age 50 should have a hearing exam once a year to detect early signs of hearing loss. There are several causes for hearing loss that have been examined by various researchers. One of these causes appears to be nutritional habits. By changing your food habits you can provide a well-needed boost to your hearing and ward off hearing loss.
Hearing well requires oxygen-enriched blood supply to the delicate hair follicles within the inner ears. Foods that are rich in omega-3 fatty acids can boost hearing health. Other nutrients that are important for healthy hearing include Vitamins B12, C, D, and E, as well as folic acid, magnesium, and zinc.
Omega-3 fatty acids are often found in certain types of fish like salmon or tuna. Even sardines are known to be rich sources of this helpful nutrient which can strengthen the blood vessels and help in oxygen flow to the ears. Researchers report that eating more than two portions of the fish mentioned above each week can reduce the likelihood of age-related hearing loss by 42%! If you are a vegetarian or simply do not fancy fish that much, you can also find Omega-3 fatty acids in nuts and seeds such as walnuts, soybeans, and flaxseed. Another rich source of the nutrient is spinach, so load up on that baby spinach salad!
Lots of other kinds of foods are packed with necessary nutrients that boost hearing health. Vitamin B12 is found is eggs, dairy products, tofu, and even red meat. You can stock up on your Vitamin C, D, and E supply by eating lots of citrus fruits, berries, and even vegetables such as broccoli and peas. Spinach, apart from being packed with omega-3 fatty acids, is also a rich source of magnesium as well as zinc.
Antioxidants are another helpful nutrient that can aid in hearing health. Antioxidants can help prevent the damage caused by free radicals that can result in damage to the ear cells, thereby resulting in hearing loss. The foods mentioned above are rich sources of these necessary antioxidants, especially Vitamins A, C, and E. So ACE your hearing exam next time by eating right!