Hearing loss is a prevalent condition experienced by over 37-million Americans ranging from any age. According to research, several factors may account for hearing loss. These include lacking a variety of essential nutrients, which can also impact your hearing function and overall health. This article provides insights into the role of diet and nutrition in maintaining healthy hearing. Research has found that those who increased their long-term intake of the following nutrients had better hearing and were less likely to develop hearing loss.
Potassium
Potassium provides the body with the salt and electrolyte it needs to balance fluids. Plenty of potassium can lower your risk of noise-induced hearing loss and other symptoms strongly linked to aging. The liver also uses potassium to eliminate toxins in the body. You may find potassium in bananas, spinach, oranges, melons and apricots.
Consume fruits when fresh and whole to enjoy the most benefits. Although some juice and dried fruit may contain potassium, they are also heavy in sugar. So, you may consume them in moderation.
Magnesium
Magnesium is crucial for general health, well-being and hearing health. It is known to assist in maintaining the delicate fluid balance in the inner ear and to protect the ear’s delicate tissues from harm. Magnesium in almonds, spinach, cashews and black beans has also been shown in studies to help lessen the incidence of age-related hearing problems and other ear disorders. Additionally, magnesium has been shown to aid in preventing noise-induced hearing loss.
B12
Many studies have directly associated B12 deficiency with hearing loss. B12 is required to produce energy and maintain blood cells and healthy nerves. Fermented foods, including sauerkraut, kimchi, pickled veggies and yogurt, are among the finest sources of B12. You may also obtain B12 from consuming seaweed which is popular in many cultures. Red meat also contains B12.
Folate
Folate is a B vitamin your body uses to sustain by informing your body about cells to produce. Your cells may be unable to produce new, healthy cells without folate. You can supply your body with the folate it needs by consuming romaine lettuce, black-eyed peas, asparagus, spinach and avocados.
Folate is present in several breakfast kinds of cereals. However, it is better to get it from whole meals like the ones described above. Researchers discovered that folate could decrease the progression of hearing loss. You may increase your folate intake if you notice any symptoms to help avert further hearing loss.
Vitamin C and E
Some evidence suggests that vitamins C and E are excellent antioxidants and support hearing health. Vitamin C can help you protect and repair injuries to the body, while Vitamin E also protects your cells from radicals. Both vitamins ensure proper blood flow and nerve function in your inner ear. A study published in JAMA Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery also suggests a higher intake of the two vitamins can reduce the risk of noise-induced hearing loss. Various fruits and vegetables like papaya, kiwi, broccoli and bell peppers are good vitamin C and E sources.
Alpha-Lipoic Acid (ALA)
There is some evidence that alpha-lipoic acid might help with hearing health. ALA has been demonstrated in animal research to significantly preserve hearing function and in human trials to successfully prevent abrupt idiopathic hearing loss. Further study, however, is required to completely understand the therapeutic impact of Alpha-lipoic acid on compromised hearing function and its application.
Although experts say your body produces most alpha-lipoic acid on its own, it is crucial to remember that a varied and balanced diet, including foods like liver, potatoes, spinach and broccoli, is typically suggested to promote overall health and that you should only use supplements approved by an audiologist.
Vitamin D
Despite the many benefits of vitamin D for good health, many people don’t get enough of it. Researchers say vitamin D helps strengthen the inner ear’s tiny bones and improve its function. Sunlight-growing mushrooms and lichen are good food sources for vitamin D. However, the sun is the finest and free source.
When exposed to sunshine, the human body produces vitamin D, but moderation is key. While vitamin D can benefit your hearing, excessive sun exposure can damage your skin and increases the risk of developing skin cancer and premature skin aging. You may wear protective clothing, use sunscreen and avoid direct sunshine during peak periods.
Diet and nutrition are vital for hearing health; even minor impairments can result in irreversible hearing loss. You may contact your audiologist at Hear Here Audiology if you experience any symptoms of hearing loss. Call us today at 727-289-1212 to learn more about ways to protect your hearing.
