HEALTHY LIVING Hearing Loss BY LYNN C. ALLISON M
ost people are resigned to losing their hearing as
they age. But recent research
reveals that lifestyle factors, including what we eat, can play an important role in halting this deterioration. A blockbuster study from
Brigham and Women’s Hospital examined three years of data and discovered that women who followed a healthful eating regimen, such as the Mediterranean or DASH diets (Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension), reduced their risk for hearing loss by 30%. Age-related hearing
loss affects about a quarter of those in their 60s, half in their 70s, and 80% in their 80s. It can lead to social
isolation, memory loss, loneliness, and depression. It can also be life-threatening when you consider the associated increase in motor vehicle accidents. Michael Greger, M.D., author of How Not to Age,
A
Can Be Prevented A new study finds that eating a healthy diet can reduce the risk by 30%. ::
says that following a diet proven to boost heart health also benefits hearing. “We used to think that
this is a natural part of the aging process, but then we discovered tribes in Africa and Asia who follow a plant- based diet retained their hearing well into old age,” says Greger. A study of more
than 2,000 twins found that genetics are only responsible for 25% of age- related hearing loss, so that gives lots of leverage to saving our hearing with lifestyle choices. The Brigham and
Women’s study focused on foods containing certain nutrients that appeared to boost auditory health. David Friedman, a
clinical nutritionist and author of Food Sanity, says the following foods can help prevent or delay the onset of age-related hearing loss: Fish. Omega-3 fatty acids
are known to improve blood flow to the inner ear, reducing the risk of hearing loss. Fish such as salmon,
Other Critical Factors
udiologist Lindsay S. Creed says that it’s important to minimize exposure to loud
noise, which remains the leading cause of preventable hearing damage. Wearing hearing protection in noisy environments is key. Some medications can damage the inner ear, such as chemotherapy drugs, certain
88 NEWSMAX MAXLIFE | MAY 2025
sardines, and trout are a rich source of omega-3s. Leafy greens. Spinach,
kale, and other leafy greens are high in folate, which helps reduce inflammation and enhances blood circulation, potentially protecting against hearing impairment. Nuts and seeds. Cashews,
almonds, and flaxseeds are rich in magnesium, which helps protect cochlear hair cells from damage caused by loud noises. Citrus fruits and berries.
These contain vitamins C and E, which act as antioxidants, helping to fend off free radicals and maintain healthy ear cells. Whole grains and
legumes. Foods like brown rice and beans contain zinc, a mineral that supports immune function and helps reduce the risk of ear infections. “While we may have little
control over the genetic factors of natural age- related changes that affect our hearing, embracing a healthy lifestyle can significantly delay the onset and lessen the severity of hearing loss,” says Lindsay S. Creed, an audiologist with the American Speech- Language-Hearing Association (ASHA).
antibiotics, and high doses of aspirin. Watch out for earwax buildup, as this can cause temporary hearing loss that, if left unchecked, may lead to permanent damage. Clinical nutritionist David Friedman
recommends certain supplements that have been shown to prevent or delay the onset of hearing loss to his patients.
These include coenzyme Q10, Ginkgo
biloba, and alpha lipoic acid. He adds that he’s had tremendous success with his patients with hearing loss by correcting their temporomandibular joint (TMJ), because of its proximity to the ear. A chiropractor, physical therapist,
or dentist may help alleviate auditory symptoms caused by TMJ.
A study found that genetics are only responsible for 25% of age-related hearing loss.
EAR/PEAKSTOCK©ISTOCK / CITRUS AND BERRIES/SOLIDCOLOURS©ISTOCK
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