We hear a lot in the media about how certain foods can help us to remain healthier these days. We know that fish oil may be good for lowering blood pressure, that vegetables can reduce the risk of heart disease and that milk is a good source of calcium. But were you aware that some foods can help to improve your hearing? Here are some examples of hearing-friendly foodstuffs.
Potassium
Potassium offers a number of benefits to our health, including improvements to blood pressure, digestion and pH balance. It helps to regulate the blood supply to our cells, which will assist in turning noises into electrical impulses. By doing so, it helps our ears to translate and process all noises, including conversation.
Potassium isn’t formed naturally in the body, so we rely on our food and drink intake to help us get the right amount. It can be found in a wide variety of foods, including:
- Lean meat
- Grains, beans and nuts
- Fruits, including apricots, bananas and pineapples
- Vegetables, including carrots, potatoes and spinach
Folic acid
One of the B vitamins, folic acid can aid fertility, reduce the risk of heart diseases and strokes, and there are claims that not consuming enough of it can even help to bring on depression. By encouraging improved blood circulation, folic acid indirectly helps to keep the cells in our ears healthy and working properly.
It’s found in many food items, including:
- Dried beans, peas and lentils
- Liver
- Vegetables, including broccoli, brussels sprouts and beets
- Some whole-wheat products
Zinc
A mineral that has a number of health benefits, zinc is particularly important for the development of babies and young children. It promotes cell growth and can help to prevent ear infections in both children and adults. A deficiency of zinc can lead to a number of problems, including weight gain and loss, hair loss, digestive issues, chronic fatigue syndrome and even changes in our senses of taste and smell.
Several foodstuffs are rich in zinc content. They include:
- Lamb
- Pumpkin seeds
- Chickpeas
- Granola
- Raisins
- Oats
- Nut butters
- Mushrooms
Further advice
Your ability to hear well relies on a number of complex issues, including the food you consume. There are many ways to protect your hearing these days, so it’s a good idea to seek advice from the professionals. Here at SEHCC, we are always happy to offer you the guidance you need.