Giving ourselves the proper foundations to grow is crucial for our health, and the same is true for our hearing. Maintaining our best health may benefit us in many ways. Supplements are meant to enhance a diet already high in nutrients; however, you should always see a doctor if you have any concerns.
There are several advantages to supplementing in connection to the health of your hearing, including raising your blood flow and antioxidant consumption. It is important to provide your body with all the vitamins and minerals it needs to operate, so even if there isn’t a miracle drug that will stop or reverse hearing loss, you might want to include some of the following in your diet to support your auditory system.
Vitamin Benefits for Hearing Health
Taking vitamins and supplements can indeed have some potential benefits for hearing health. Here are a few:
Antioxidant protection
Certain vitamins, such as vitamin C and vitamin E, act as antioxidants, which can help protect the delicate cells in the inner ear from damage caused by free radicals. This protection may help preserve hearing health over time and reduce the risk of hearing loss due to oxidative stress.
Improved circulation
Supplements like omega-3 fatty acids and ginkgo biloba can help improve blood flow and circulation, including in the small blood vessels of the inner ear. Better circulation can support the overall health of the auditory system.
Reduced inflammation
Some supplements, like turmeric or ginger, have anti-inflammatory properties. By reducing inflammation in the body, these supplements may help alleviate any inflammation-related hearing issues.
Enhanced nerve function
Certain B vitamins, particularly B12, are essential for maintaining healthy nerve function, including the nerves in the auditory system. Taking B vitamin supplements can support nerve health and potentially improve hearing.
It’s important to note that while vitamins and supplements may have potential benefits, they should not replace proper medical care. If you have concerns about your hearing health, it’s always best to consult with a healthcare professional who can provide personalized advice and guidance.
Best Hearing Supplements
Good hearing is important! When it comes to vitamins that may support healthy hearing, a few might be worth considering. Remember, though, that it’s always best to consult with a healthcare professional for personalized advice.
Vitamin A
Vitamin A is essential for the health of cells in the inner ear and auditory nerves. It also promotes the creation of the protein rhodopsin, which is required for low-light vision. Vitamin A-rich foods include liver, carrots, sweet potatoes, and leafy green vegetables.
Research published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition discovered that increased vitamin A intakes were connected with decreased hearing loss in women. The researchers evaluated the Nurses’ Health Study II data and concluded that vitamin A may protect against age-related hearing loss.
Colorful fruits and vegetables, like carrots, sweet potatoes, and leafy greens, contain beta carotene, a precursor to vitamin A. Once eaten, beta carotene is converted into vitamin A, which is essential for the health of the inner ear and auditory nerve. Including beta carotene-rich foods in your diet can improve your overall hearing health and supplement the advantages of other critical vitamins and minerals.
Vitamin C
Vitamin C, a potent antioxidant, helps protect the inner ear cells from oxidative damage. It also promotes good circulation, ensuring the ear’s components receive appropriate oxygen and nutrients. Citrus fruits, strawberries, and bell peppers are rich in vitamin C.
A study published in JAMA Otolaryngology-Head & Neck Surgery looked into the relationship between vitamin C consumption and hearing loss in many people. The study discovered that increased vitamin C intake was connected with a decreased incidence of hearing loss, particularly in older persons
Vitamin E
Vitamin E works along with vitamin C to eliminate free radicals and protect against oxidative stress. It also promotes good blood flow, which is necessary for preserving the health of the inner ear. Nuts, seeds, and vegetable oils are high in vitamin E.
Vitamin D
New research reveals that vitamin D insufficiency may be linked to an increased risk of hearing loss. Vitamin D receptors have been discovered in the inner ear, demonstrating its role in hearing function. Vitamin D is mostly derived from sunlight and fortified foods such as milk and cereal.
Vitamin B12
Vitamin B12 is essential for nerve health and may help prevent damage to the auditory nerve, hence preserving hearing function. Animal items, including meat, fish, and dairy, are the principal dietary sources of vitamin B12, hence vegetarians and vegans must supplement.
A study published in the International Journal of Audiology looked at the relationship between vitamin B12 deficiency and hearing loss in older persons. The researchers discovered that persons with low blood levels of vitamin B12 were more likely to experience hearing loss than those with normal levels, emphasizing the relevance of vitamin B12 in preserving auditory health.
Folate (Vitamin B9)
Folate is required for DNA synthesis and repair, making it critical for cell development and maintenance, including those in the inner ear. According to research, folate insufficiency may be associated with age-related hearing loss, underlining the necessity of appropriate consumption. Green leafy vegetables, lentils, and fortified grains are rich sources of folate.
Magnesium
Magnesium is essential for nerve function and may help prevent noise-induced hearing loss. It also promotes good circulation, ensuring the inner ear structures receive adequate oxygen and nutrients. Magnesium-rich foods include nuts, seeds, whole grains, and green vegetables.
Research published in Otology & Neurotology looked at the effects of magnesium supplementation on noise-induced hearing loss in guinea pigs. The researchers discovered that magnesium supplementation provided considerable protection against noise-induced damage to the cochlea, indicating a possible function in preventing hearing loss.
Herbal Remedies For Hearing
Ginseng
Regular users of ginseng may be able to reduce their hearing thresholds and alleviate their tinnitus symptoms. Ginseng may gradually improve hearing by restoring sensitive ear areas for people with sensorineural hearing loss.
Ginkgo Biloba
Improved blood circulation is beneficial for both your body and your hearing, and ginkgo supports this. Maintaining adequate blood circulation will keep your body operating and your ears at a healthy temperature.
Garlic
Garlic is an excellent antifungal that may be used to prevent bacteria. It makes sense to utilize garlic to get the various health advantages, as germs may cause illnesses. Additionally, studies on the effects of garlic on blood flow and cochlear function have indicated improvements.
If you have any worries about your general health, it’s crucial to speak with a doctor about how to battle hearing loss. Make an appointment with an audiologist as soon as possible if you think you could be experiencing hearing issues. They can provide you with an accurate assessment of your hearing health.
Dr. Nicolette Natale is a physician, with a background in Psychology, General Medicine, and English Literature, combining her expertise to provide readers with the most accurate, easy-to-understand, and comprehensive information regarding healthcare. She received her Doctorate in Osteopathic Medicine from Nova Southeastern University, and her bachelor’s in English Literature and Psychology from the University of Miami. Dr. Natale seeks to empower individuals with knowledge, fostering a greater understanding of holistic health and encouraging a proactive approach to well-being