Audiologists are putting more and more emphasis on diet when it comes to preventing hearing loss. While omega-3-rich foods and fish have known benefits, leafy greens for healthy hearing have come to the fore in recent times.
But why should you include leafy greens for healthy hearing?
Benefits of Leafy Greens for Hearing
Leafy greens contain several nutrients that can benefit your hearing, including:
- Alpha Lipoic Acid: As a powerful antioxidant, alpha lipoic acid protects your ears against damaging free radicals. Leafy greens contain plenty of alpha lipoic acid.
- Potassium: As we age, potassium levels drop. Because this nutrient plays an important part in how the cells interact inside the inner ear, eating potassium-rich foods like leafy greens, is crucial.
- Folate: A lack of this B vitamin has long been associated with higher risks of hearing loss. Luckily, leafy greens are high in folates.
- Magnesium: Magnesium is believed to help with tinnitus, hearing sensitivities, as well as prevent age-related hearing loss. Leafy greens are a rich source of magnesium.
Leafy Greens for Healthy Hearing: Three Tips
Now that you know why to include leafy greens for healthy hearing, let’s look at three tips on how to do just that:
- Familiarize Yourself with all the Leafy Greens: Lettuce, kale, spinach, Swiss chard, broccoli, and cabbage are the main ones.
- Be Creative with Your Leafy Greens: Many people dread the thought of eating kale. But, don’t fret, all you need is a little creativity. Why not add spinach to a smoothie? Why not add leafy greens to your vegetable soup or stew? How about a delicious spinach and pine kernel pasta dish?
- Make Leafy Greens One or More of Your Five-a-Day: The best approach is to make a firm decision to include leafy greens in your daily diet.
Final Thoughts
Leafy greens provide valuable nutrients, not just for your hearing but your overall health. Simply make a concerted effort to include leafy greens as part of your five-a-day to reap the many nutritional benefits.
