The causes of hearing loss are multiple: it can be due to physical trauma (infections, injury, loud music) but also to deficiencies. This is at least the hypothesis of Canadian researchers. A new preliminary study suggests that consume moreomega-3via the plate or as a dietary supplement, could prevent the hearing loss. The results of this study were presented on July 25 at the annual meeting of the American Society for Nutrition. It was the author of the study, Michael McBurney, principal scientist at the Fatty Acid Research Institute, who spoke to explain his observations.
“With approximately 1.57 billion people suffering from hearing loss and an aging global population, the role of omega-3 fatty acids, particularly DHA (docosahexaenoic acid), in the maintenance of a healthy and functioning auditory system is an important research question“, said Michael McBurney to our colleagues from Health.
Using data from the UK Biobank, a large database in the United Kingdom, researchers analyzed information from more than 100,000 participants, aged 40 to 69. They answered two questions:
- Do you have difficulty hearing?
- Do you have difficulty following a conversation when there are background noises?
By comparing the responses with the levels of DHA (docosahexaenoic acid) in the blood of the participants, the scientists concluded that it is involved in the process of hearing loss. Indeed, people with the highest DHA levels are 16% less likely to answer yes to the first question and 11% to the second.
These conclusions are, however, preliminary:Whether or not people should add DHA to their diet to protect themselves and prevent hearing loss remains to be determined, as this research has yet to be done.“said Dr. Linda Dahl, an otolaryngologist at Northwell Lenox Hill Hospital in New York City.
How to fill up on omega-3?
The foods richest in omega-3 DHA are oily fish (salmon, sardines, etc.). Their benefits are not limited to hearing. They are also needed by the body for cognitive, visual and heart health functions.
Omega-3 fatty acids are found in nuts (hazelnut, pistachio) and their oils,Colza oil as well as in the eggs free-range chickens.
Note that the symptoms of a lack of omega-3s may be: overweight (BMI > 25), depression, dry eyes or dry, brittle hair.
What other foods improve hearing?
According to a previous study published in the Journal of Nutritionwomen who followed the Mediterranean diet or the DASH diet 30% less risk of suffering from hearing loss. Although the diets studied have differences, they have some commonalities.
They highlight fruits and vegetables. Give preference in particular to those rich in beta carotene (vitamin A) and folic acid (vitamin B9). These vitamins, like omega-3s, seem to have a hearing-protective function. Colors can help you compose your plate: beta-carotene is found in orange foods like carrots.
It is also recommended to reduce the consumption of sodium, added sugars and saturated fats. This habit would be beneficial to promote blood flow in the inner ear. In addition, limiting carbohydrates helps prevent type 2 diabetes, which can cause hearing loss.
Sources:
- American Society for Nutrition
- Health, July 25, 2023
- Adherence to Healthy Dietary Patterns Is Associated with Lower Risk of Hearing Loss in Women, Journal of Nutrition2018
