Hearing Loss: Omega-3s Reduce Risk by 14%
Omega 3 supplements: 14% lower risk of hearing loss
Increasing the intake of Omega 3 fatty acids can reduce the risk of experiencing age-related hearing loss. In particular, according to researchers from the University of Sydney (Australia), individuals over 50 who consume Omega-3 rich fish at least twice a week reduce this risk by 42% compared to those who eat less than one serving of fish per week. A similar effect was found for Omega-3 fatty acid intake, corresponding to a 14% reduction in the risk of age-related hearing loss. The results of the Australian researchers are reported by the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition.
The importance of diet for ear health
Previous studies have already highlighted the importance of a proper diet to reduce the risk of losing some hearing with age. For example, in 2007, the Annals of Internal Medicine published research from experts at Wageningen University (Netherlands) involving 728 men and women aged between 50 and 70 years. The results showed that folic acid supplementation delays the onset of hearing problems related to the perception of low-frequency sound waves. Another study, presented in February 2009 at the annual conference of the Association for Research in Otolaryngology in Baltimore (USA), demonstrated that beta carotene, vitamin C, vitamin E, and magnesium prevent both temporary and permanent hearing loss in mice and guinea pigs.
Fish for healthy hearing
In the new research, scientists from the University of Sydney, led by Paul Mitchell, analyzed data from 2,956 individuals involved in the Blue Mountains Hearing Study. This study focuses on the Australian population regarding age-related hearing loss. Fish consumption – and consequently Omega-3 intake – was determined by analyzing a dietary habits questionnaire completed by each study participant. The analysis results showed a correlation between the total amount of Omega-3 consumed through the diet and hearing loss. Specifically, higher fish consumption corresponded to a decreased risk of experiencing a decline in hearing ability. According to the researchers, the study’s findings suggest that Omega-3 intake could prevent or delay age-related hearing loss. Further research, including clinical trials, will help verify this hypothesis.
Source
1. Gopinath B, Flood VM, Rochtchina E, McMahon CM, Mitchell P, “Consumption of omega-3 fatty acids and fish and risk of age-related hearing loss”, Am J Clin Nutr. 2010 Aug;92(2):416-21. Epub 2010 Jun 9 2. Durga J, Verhoef P, Anteunis LJ, Schouten E, Kok FJ, “Effects of folic acid supplementation on hearing in older adults: a randomized, controlled trial”, Ann Intern Med. 2007 Jan 2;146(1):1-9
