Did you know that there’s another great reason to enjoy one of Ireland’s favourite exports? Guinness has historically been recognised for its high iron content, and has been used as a tonic for building up strength by many patients in recovery. However, the latest studies suggest that the iron levels in this popular drink may also be useful in preventing hearing loss.
Research into iron levels and hearing loss suggests that there is a positive link between iron deficiency anaemia and hearing loss. Since anaemia is such a common condition across the world, this is not good news for our hearing organs! Very low levels of iron can cause both conductive hearing loss, due to problems caused to the bones in the middle ear, and sensorineural hearing loss, where the cochlea or nerve pathways become damaged.
Top Tips To Prevent Hearing Loss
Drink up. A pint of Guinness may not be a bad way to help protect your hearing, raising your iron levels and helping to prevent damage to the hearing organs. Many other foods and drinks can also provide the essential nutrients that keep your ears healthy, including magnesium and zinc, so you can improve your hearing health by eating a balanced and nutritious diet.- Keep moving. Exercise is an essential element in a healthy lifestyle and can help to prevent hearing loss by improving bone density and cardiovascular fitness. Keeping your hearing organs in great shape will give you the best chance of preventing hearing loss as you age.
- Protect your ears. Exposure to loud noises can lead to hearing loss as the cells in the ear become damaged. It is vital to avoid loud noises wherever possible, and make use of noise cancelling headphones whenever you are in a noisy environment.
- Be aware of the risks of medications. Many prescription medications carry side effects that are potentially damaging to the hearing organs, and these are known as ototoxic drugs. You should be aware of this when you are prescribed medication, and always let your doctor know if you have a family history of hearing loss.
Book a Free Hearing Test at Hidden Hearing
Hidden Hearing is Ireland’s leading private provider of hearing care solutions, and our national network includes over seventy-five branches and clinics. We have a wide variety of hearing aids, including small and highly sensitive devices that cannot be seen by other people, and you can try these when you visit your local branch.
If you are concerned about your hearing, contact us as soon as possible to book a free hearing test with our audiologists. Hearing loss can deteriorate rapidly, and can also lead to other issues such as depression, dementia and isolation, so do not delay seeking help. Contact Hidden Hearing online today, or pop into your local branch.