Can superfoods really boost your hearing?

I’m always going on about the benefits of foods when it comes to health: from your skin to your gut and everything in between. But to be honest, when it comes to ears and hearing, I’d never think food could have such an impact. It might surprise you then to learn that there are a range of foods that are packed full of powerful nutrients and vitamins, capable of both easing the symptoms of ear problems and even preventing various forms of hearing loss. Let’s take a look….

Red meats and poultry

Red meats (especially beef sourced organically from grass-fed cows) contain large amounts of zinc. The more I read about zinc, the more I am fascinated by the array of health conditions it’s linked to. It’s thought that zinc, a mineral largely responsible for cell growth and bolstering the immune system, possesses healing properties that fix existing wounds and eliminate germs. It’s a vital weapon for fighting off ear infections and is also known to help reduce the effects of tinnitus according to this study. Zinc can also be found in oysters, nuts, pumpkin seeds, and even dark chocolate. There are supplements available in place of these foods, but as always, make sure you consult advice on taking them if you are on any medication as they can interfere with antibiotics and diuretics. Seek advice from your doctor if you are unsure.

Green and orange vegetables

Along with zinc, Vitamin A plays a key role in the strengthening of your immune system and the body’s ability to overcome ear infections. Deficiencies in the vitamin are linked with the onset of tinnitus and age-related hearing loss, making it an essential part of your healthy hearing diet. To regulate your intake, ensure your diet includes leafy green vegetables and orange vegetables rich in beta-carotene (such as carrots). Leafy vegetables such as spinach and asparagus possess a wealth of valuable nutrients from magnesium and iron to vitamins K, A, and B2.

Oily fish

Well, as you know, I am always going on about the benefits of oily fish (it’s amazing for inflammation; especially in the case of wild caught fish). Fresh seafood has superfood properties capable of benefiting various aspects of ear health. Oily fish, such as mackerel, tuna, and salmon, provide rich sources of omega-3. These fatty acids strengthen the blood vessels in the sensory system of the ear, reducing the chances of developing age-related hearing loss. Fatty fish also contain copious amounts of Vitamin D (more on this amazing vitamin in my blog post here) which is vital to the strengthening of bones, including the bones found in the ear which are crucial to hearing. It is recommended that you aim to eat oily fish at least two times a week. If you don’t like fish, quality fish oil supplements are a good alternative.

Bananas

Magnesium and levels of Vitamin A can both be found in one of the nation’s most popular fruits:bananas. An essential mineral for the body, magnesium is one of my top recommended supplements and it is used to relax muscles, help sleep, lower blood pressure, and increase energy. It is also linked to the reduction of tinnitus symptoms, and safeguards against noise-induced hearing loss through its protection of the nerves in the inner ear. Stress and anxiety are both classic causes of the infamous ringing sensation and, as a result, only act to intensify it. If that wasn’t enough, bananas also contain potassium, a powerful electrolyte that helps regulate blood pressure and stabilise the fluids of the inner ear.

I teamed up with the lovely folks at Leightons to bring you this post. For further tips and guidance on ear health, make sure you get in touch with the specialists at Leightons for tailored care and treatments.

This is a collaborative post.