Protect Your Hearing with Power Foods

Did you know that certain foods play a critical role in your hearing health? The reason is largely due to their mineral content. There are certain minerals that work to protect your hearing, just as other vitamins and minerals promote a healthy and functioning body and mind.

Potassium

Potassium regulates the amount of fluid in your blood and body tissue, including your inner ear. Potassium is important for keeping the inner ear healthy. This is where noises we hear are translated into electrical pulses that the brain interprets as sound.

Power Foods

• Bananas
• Spinach
• Tomatoes
• Apricots
• Melons
• Oranges
• Potatoes
• Lima Beans
• Raisins
• Yogurt
• Low-Fat Milk

Folic Acid

Folic acid is critical for your body to be able to generate new cell growth. There is a direct correlation between low levels of folic acid and the development of presbycusis (age related hearing loss). The body uses folic acid to metabolize homocysteine, an inflammatory compound that reduces circulation. Good circulation is an important component in keeping the hair cells of the inner ear healthy and working properly.

Power Foods

• Fortified Cereals
• Spinach
• Broccoli
• Asparagus
• Liver

Magnesium

Magnesium combats the effects of free radicals emitted during loud noises and works like a protective barrier for the delicate hair cells in the inner ear. For this reason, people that are pretreated with magnesium can be protected from noise-related hearing loss. Also, a lack of magnesium in the inner ear can cause the blood vessels to shrink, depriving it of valuable oxygen. Another reason to make sure you get enough magnesium in your diet.

Power Foods

• Artichokes
• Potatoes
• Spinach
• Tomatoes
• Broccoli

Zinc

Zinc is great for the body’s immune system and is responsible for cell growth and healing wounds, so it is helpful in protecting you against germs that cause the common cold and ear infections. It has also been shown to be effective in treating tinnitus in individuals with normal hearing.

Power Foods

• Beef
• Pork
• Dark-meat chicken
• Cashews
• Almonds
• Peanuts
• Beans
• Split Peas
• Lentils
• Oysters
• Dark chocolate!