Hearing Loss

     Hearing loss is epidemic in the United States. The level of noise which can cause permanent damage to hearing begins at about 85 decibels which is typical of hair dryers, blenders, and food processors. Look for quiet household appliances  and use protection for hearing if exposed to loud noises.

 

National Institutes web site on protection of hearing.

 Dry Eyes, Hearing Loss, & Fish Oils

   

     I first became aware of the widespread nature of hearing loss while working on my book Your Body's Sign Language: Clues to Nutritional Well-Being. Loud noises are frequently involved in hearing loss. A recent study found that consuming 2 or more servings of fish rich in omega-3 fatty acids reduced the risk of hearing loss in older women by 20%. The study followed 65,000 women over a period of 18 years. The researchers believe that the omega-3 fats in fish improve blood flow to the energy demanding cells of the inner ear and improve the removal of waste products from the cells. Sound familiar anyone? NeoLife has been stressing the importance of quality lipids for building and nourishing healthy cells since 1958.

     Another problem common to older individuals is dry eyes. A recent study found that 3 months of supplementation with fish oils and and small quantities of antioxidants decreased dry eye signs, tear instability, and inflammation of the eyelids.

References:

Curhan, Sharon G., et al., Fish and fatty acid consumption and the risk of hearing loss in women,

Am J Clin Nutr. 2014 Nov;100(5):1371-7.

Olenik, Andrea, et al., Benefits of Omega-3 fatty Acid Dietary Supplementation on Health-Related Quality of Life in Patients with Meibomian Gland Dysfunction, Clin Ophthalmol. 2014;8:831-836.