Your ears need vital nutrients to function optimally. The kind of food you eat can significantly affect your hearing. Although auditory loss is a common sign of aging, hearing conservation researchers say dietary and lifestyle adjustments can reduce your risks of experiencing this condition. This means you can still maintain your hearing even as you advance in years. If you’re looking for the best foods to maintain healthy ears, check out these top five options.
- Bananas
Banana is a rich source of potassium; many athletes incorporate this amazing fruit into their daily diet to manage muscle cramps. Studies show bananas also play a role in hearing loss protection because they contain magnesium. This nutrient improves blood vessel expansion and blood circulation through the inner ear. Apart from boosting blood flow, magnesium also regulates the release of glutamate, a substance linked with noise-induced hearing loss. Your hearing ability is less likely to diminish if glutamate regulation is effective. Start adding bananas to your diet, from breakfast to snacks and smoothies, to reduce your risks of developing hearing loss issues.
- Broccoli
One study revealed folic acid is useful in minimizing hearing loss. Broccoli is a great example of foods rich in folic acids and other nutrients like vitamins K and C and fiber. The nutrient trio effectively reduces damage to the most sensitive parts of your ear. You can consume broccoli in different forms; eat it raw, and steam or grill a healthy amount of broccoli to boost your hearing ability.
- Fish
Studies show that fish is a great source of protein and omega-3 fatty acids, which are thought to reduce heart disease risks. Plus, omega-3 foods may help lower dementia risks. Beyond that, eating two or more servings of fish like tuna, herring, or salmon every week has been associated with lower risks of hearing loss. Your diet can impact your blood vessels and pressure, so embracing healthy foods like fish is a good idea. Furthermore, visiting hearing health professionals is necessary if you have persistent ear problems. So aside from incorporating fish into your diet, consider visiting a family hearing center, where they may recommend the best hearing aids to enhance your hearing ability and enjoy the full benefits.
- Lentils, peas, and beans
Zinc is one vital nutrient that promotes growth and development. It also impacts hearing health positively. The mineral helps the immune system fight against ear issues like tinnitus (ringing in the ear). Thankfully, lentils, peas, and beans are excellent sources of zinc, making it a smart idea to add these foods to your everyday diet. Eat zinc-rich foods to keep ears and hearing function in good shape. Whether you mash it or eat it salad-style, these foods can give you healthier ears.
- Garlic
Studies reveal that healthy ears and garlic go together. Garlic improves blood circulation and reduces inflammation, particularly within hearing organs. Eating this food will benefit your blood pressure, a common cause of long-term health problems. You may use odor-free garlic supplements or incorporate a few cloves into your recipe for best results. Make garlic a normal part of your healthy eating menu, and you may notice an improvement in conditions like tinnitus.
