There are many factors that can contribute to the development of hearing loss, including ototoxic medications, loud noise exposure, physical trauma and gradual changes (as a result of aging) to the inner or middle ear and the nerve pathways leading to the brain. Age-related hearing loss is the most common sensory deficit in older adults. While you cannot prevent aging, some research suggests that nutrition—specifically the regular consumption of omega-3 fatty acids, may play a role in preventing hearing loss.
What Are Omega-3 Fatty Acids?
Omega-3 fatty acids are healthy fats best known for supporting good heart, brain, eye, cardiovascular and endocrine health. Your body doesn’t produce the amount of omega-3s you need on its own. Consuming foods or vitamins high in omega-3s is the best way to ensure your body gets the right amount it needs.
Why Are Omega-3s Good for Hearing?
A comprehensive analysis conducted in 2010 examined data from 2,956 participants between 1997 and 2004. The study compared the incidence of hearing loss in individuals who consumed more than two servings of fish per week to those who consumed less than one. The results revealed a significant correlation between higher omega-3 intake and a reduced risk of hearing loss. Fatty fish like salmon, sardines, mackerel, herring and cod are excellent sources of omega-3 fatty acids, which play a vital role in overall health. These findings suggest that incorporating omega-3s into your diet may help prevent or delay age-related hearing loss.
One reason omega-3s may contribute to better hearing is their impact on blood flow. Disturbances to the blood flow in the cochlear is a commonly reported reason for inner ear hearing loss. Omega-3s help maintain adequate blood flow through the cochlea, the spiral-shaped cavity in the inner ear responsible for transmitting sound to the brain.
How Can You Get Adequate Omega-3s?
The most well-known source of omega-3s is fatty fish like salmon, sardines and mackerel. In addition to consuming fatty fish twice a week, you can get your omega-3 fatty acids through vegetarian sources like chia seeds, walnuts, flaxseeds, plant oils, fortified foods and provider-approved vitamins. Try adding flaxseed from Hagen to your morning oatmeal or an afternoon smoothie to give yourself a daily omega-3 boost.
To learn more about hearing loss protection and treatment, contact Hearing Advancement Center today to make an appointment with one of our specialists.
