Well, now there's evidence that eating fish can be good for your ears. (And there's more to this assertion than the fact that sharks don't wear hearing aids!)
The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition has concluded that eating two servings of fish weekly lowers the risk of experiencing hearing loss by 42% if you're 50 years or older.
The only caveat is that the fish should be fresh. Processed, deep-fried fish products were not used in this study, and according to researchers, would likely not offer the same benefits as fresh fish. Fried fish loses nutritional benefits during processing.
The same study also indicated that consumption of omega-3 fatty acid capsules minimized hearing loss risk by 14%. Since the human body doesn't produce omega-3, it needs to be acquired through dietary consumption.
"Daily intervention with omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids could prevent or delay the development of age-related hearing loss", report researchers, led by scientist Paul Mitchell.
In an age when some 36 million Americans report some degree of hearing loss, that number could begin to decline if we ate more fresh fish in this country.
Other studies also support the idea of better nutrition and specific micro-nutrients minimizing the risk of hearing loss, as well.
A report released in 2007 show that folic acid slowed presbycusis (a term for age-related hearing loss) in the lower frequency ranges. The study was performed on men and women between the ages of 50 and 70.
Folic acid is found in green leafy vegetables – like lettuce, kale and broccoli. It can also be found in multi-vitamin supplements.
And yet another study indicated that increased levels of beta carotene – a substance found in orange and yellow vegetables – like carrots, yams, and yellow squash – lowers the risk of age-related hearing loss.
Other vitamins and minerals studied and found to support good hearing health include:
- Vitamin C
- Magnesium
- Vitamin E
In general, all of these nutrients are good for you, and can benefit you in many ways, when taken according to prescribed nutritional guidelines. (Ask your doctor for your personal nutritional recommendations.)
So, enjoy a fish dinner twice weekly, and toss in some fresh vegetables for added benefits. You'll feel better – and perhaps you'll help preserve your hearing as you age.
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