It has been well-known and documented that exposure to loud sounds, such as firearms, machinery, and power tools, can cause sound-induced hearing loss. As a result, hearing protection devices have been prescribed for those who work in loud environments or use loud equipment.
But did you know that your diet may also protect you from the effects of loud sounds?
A recent study published in the International Journal of Audiology showed that those who were exposed to firearms or served in the military demonstrated reduced hearing. However, within this group, those who had poorer diets had significantly worse hearing than those who had healthier dietary habits.
This suggests that having a healthier diet may further protect your ears from damage caused by noise.
We continue to advocate and prescribe the use of hearing protection devices and in no uncertain terms are we suggesting a healthy diet in place of hearing protection devices. However, it is worth considering what you are eating when thinking about protecting your ears in noise.
For more information on a healthy diet, please see the Healthy Eating Index.
If you have been exposed to loud sounds, are experiencing difficulty hearing, or would just like to have your hearing checked, please give our office a call at
