Approximately 12% of the population in the US suffers from hearing loss. I suspect that growing numbers of people will suffer as the advent of ipods has allowed for personal music to be played at very high levels very close to the ear drums. The more exposure we have, and the higher the decibel levels, the more likely it is that we will suffer from hearing loss.
While it may seem unusual, there are some nutrients which support the body and help to guard against hearing loss. While there is no definitive nutritional solution which will prevent hearing loss it can be delayed by making sure that you have optimal nutritional levels of the following:
B12 which is found in foods such as sardines, salmon, venison, and lamb.
Folic acid (which appears to be strongly linked to high-frequency hearing loss) is highest in legumes such as lentils, pinto beans, garbanzo beans,etc. and dark leafy greens.
Vitamin A protects against damaging free radicals and can be found in foods that are rich in beta-carotenes such as sweet potatoes, carrots, and winter squash. Beta carotenes can also be found in dark leafy greens, the chlorophyll hides the orange color associated with beta carotene.
This infographic from Herzan has some interesting facts about hearing loss and decibel levels.
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I always figured that loud music could impact hearing, but never thought about it being related to nutrition. Definitely something to remember and be aware of.
Wow! This was a great article! Graphic displays of sound and more.
Who knew nutrition may help save our hearing.
I have had ringing in my ears since the 80s when I used to spend 3 days a week seeing heavy metal bands in concert. Between that and my eyesight diminishing, all I can say is “Kids, listen to your mothers when they say, stop listening to your music so loud, and turn on a light when you’re watching TV.”
I’ve never read before about nutrition and hearing loss. It makes me wonder about childhood deafness and a relationship to a lack of folic acid. Thanks for sharing this information, it’s very interesting to me since hearing loss runs in my father’s side of the family.
I’ve never read before about nutrition and hearing loss. It makes me wonder about childhood deafness and a relationship to a lack of folic acid. Thanks for sharing this information, it’s very interesting to me since hearing loss runs in my father’s side of the family.