Spring has sprung and the longer days and comfortable weather may have you ready to get active! While you may be focused on physical activity, it’s important to consider your diet as well. A well-balanced diet is the perfect mate to physical activity for better overall health, including your hearing health. When planning your diet consider these foods to help maintain your hearing:
Fish
Fish is a tasty protein to have with breakfast, lunch or dinner. Fish such as salmon, tuna and mackerel are high in Omega 3 fatty acids, which have been shown to help prevent or delay the development of age-related hearing loss by more than 40 percent. These fatty acids also contribute to better brain function, which helps signals between the brain and ears travel more effectively.
Bananas
Bananas are a great grab-and-go snack and a delicious addition to smoothies. But more importantly they are a potassium-rich food. As we age, the levels of inner ear fluids tend to drop, which contributes to presbycusis. Potassium helps regulate those fluids. Bananas also contain generous amounts of magnesium. Magnesium works with Vitamins A, C, and E, to protect the hairs in the inner ear when exposed to loud noises.
Legumes
Legumes, including beans, peas, and lentils are a good way to add fiber to your diet. They are also high in folate (folic acid), which provides good circulation and helps the overall health of the hair in the inner ear. A previous study showed that participants who took folic acid supplements had a smaller decline in hearing low-frequency sounds over time.
Spinach
Spinach is a superfood with tons of health benefits including eye health, reducing blood pressure levels, and preventing cancer. It is filled with omega-3s, potassium, folate, zinc and magnesium – all of which positively contribute to your hearing health.
By adding these foods to your diet, you are taking control of the future of your hearing health. For questions about your hearing health and hearing solutions, contact the experts at New Generation Hearing Centers.
