EAT TO BEAT HEARING LOSS – BEANS
Our Eat to Beat Hearing Loss series teaches you the ear-friendly nutrients that are vital for your hearing! One of my favorite ear-friendly staples are beans and lentils. Beans and lentils are a good choice for healthy ears! Whether it’s served in a soup or salad, whole or mashed – either way you’ll get a dose of ear-friendly nutrients that also support brain function.
Beans and legumes are good sources of plant-based protein, fiber and iron. They also contain a good amount of folate which has been shown to protect against developing age-related hearing loss. These superfoods help reduce the number of damage-causing free radicals in your body, and ultimately help prevent hearing loss. Persons over the age of 50 with a folate deficiency have a 35 percent higher risk of hearing loss.
Other ear-healthy nutrients contained in beans include Magnesium, Omega 3’s, and Potassium. Magnesium protects nerve cells in the inner ear. Omega 3’s reduce inflammation in the inner ear and Potassium aids in sound processing to the brain.
Beans also contain Zinc which may also help with tinnitus. Studies show that there is a link between Zinc deficiencies and tinnitus.
The old saying, “the best defense is a good offense” applies to hearing health as well! Take the offensive and use nutrition to maintain healthy hearing.
We are trained to keep your hearing healthy! Follow our plan and you’ll be on the road to hearing wellness for 2024 and beyond!
Dr. Anita Carroll is a licensed Audiologist and owner of Hearing Solutions in the Triangle, PLLC with over 25 years of experience. Need some wellness tips – she can be contacted here. If you’re looking to test hearing or improve listening skills visit our online scheduling here.
