Some vitamins can benefit you and your loved ones’ overall health when taken in recommended amounts. These nutrients benefit everything from major internal systems to individual parts of the body, like the ear. Some specific vitamins approved by scientists and doctors alike can help strengthen your hearing, prevent or manage hearing loss and protect against ear-related diseases.
Folate/Folic Acid
Daily Folic Acid has been proven to help reduce hearing loss. Folate or Folic Acid helps absorb homocysteine, an amino acid that impairs circulation to the inner ear.
A few sources of Folic Acid are spinach, broccoli, asparagus, avocado, and eggs.
Vitamins D
Vitamin D is especially vital for the ear health of older people. A deficiency can be detrimental to the bones in the middle ear, weakening them and impairing hearing in the long run.
Sources of Vitamin D include salmon, milk, and sardines.
Vitamins A, C, and E
According to some studies, vitamins A, C, and E, alongside Magnesium, help shield against inner ear cell impairment caused by free radicals (reactive elements within the body that slowly break down cells). These vitamins contain antioxidants that prevent harm to healthy ear cells and reduce the risk of ear infections.
Foods containing these vitamins include citrus fruits, carrots, and sunflower oil.
Vitamin B12
A Vitamin B12 deficiency is often associated with tinnitus. A lack of this vitamin can slow down nerve communication, resulting in the ringing of the ears. On the other hand, increasing your intake of this vitamin can help reduce already occurring symptoms. This is because Vitamin B12 produces myelin, a lipid that acts as a sheath that surrounds the nerves.
Rich sources of B12 include clams, liver, beef, sardines, bananas or dairy products.
Omega 3 Fatty Acids
Omega 3 Fatty Acids are one of the top supplements that support the functionality of the ears. Research has shown that this nutrient strengthens the blood vessels in the ear. Fish is one the foods richest in Omega 3 Fatty Acids, so make sure to include fish in your diet for healthy ears.
Other sources of this vitamin include flaxseed, chia seed, walnuts, soybeans, etc.
Potassium
Although this isn’t technically a vitamin, Potassium plays a huge role in controlling the fluid levels in the inner ear. An adequate supply of Potassium to the body is vital for translating noise into nerve impulses transported to the brain.
Spinach, leafy greens, avocados, oranges, and potatoes are potassium-heavy foods you can add to your diet.
Vitamins, supplements, and minerals may not exempt you from ear impairments, but regular intake of these foods in the correct dosage can improve your ear health and overall well-being.
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