The fundamentals of good health are not esoteric secrets. Everyone knows what a healthy diet consists of. Whether they choose to eat healthy or not, that’s another discussion. But rarely do people eat unhealthy because they just don’t know. And everyone knows that regular exercise and  proper sleep are the cornerstones of a healthy lifestyle along with a healthy diet. 

It is less commonly considered, though obviously true with just a minute of thought, that hearing is another cornerstone of overall health. Of course we depend on good hearing to keep us safe in our environment, warning us of any threats and  orienting ourselves spatially. And one’s sense of balance is also closely linked to hearing, so even on one’s own at home, one’s physical safety is closely tied to good hearing. But hearing health also affects emotional, psychological, and  cognitive health. 

Any troubles hearing frequently and  easily unravel into all kinds of other health troubles which become more and  more difficult to fix. This is why regular hearing exams are so important, as early intervention gives a tremendous advantage. And this is also why it is so important that we each do every preventative action that we can to optimize our hearing health. 

Research proves that some vitamins, minerals, herbs, and dietary supplements can lessen the risks of hearing loss and tinnitus.

Vitamins and minerals

Folate

Folate is a B vitamin that is essential to cell division and the creation of DNA. Folate is commonly found in nuts, beans, and vegetables. Many other foods, such as bread and cereal, are commonly fortified with folic acid.

Other B vitamins

Other B vitamins, especially B6 and B12 also promote hearing health. 

Carotenoids

Carotenoids are an antioxidant and a provitamin. They are found in plants, fruits, grains, and oils and  you can recognize them by their bright yellow, red, or orange coloring. 

Omega-3 fatty acids

Though they are essential to the functioning of multiple organs and systems, the body doesn’t produce Omega-3 fatty acids. They must be ingested from foods, such as fish. 

Zinc

Zinc deficiencies can exacerbate tinnitus. Regulating the amount of zinc in your system relieves the symptoms of tinnitus. But if you suffer from tinnitus and also have normal zinc levels, taking more zinc will not alleviate the symptoms. 

Magnesium 

It seems very likely that magnesium also dampens the severity of tinnitus, but further research is still required. 

Other Herbal Remedies and Supplements

Vinpocetine

Vinpocetine (VPC) neutralizes the effects of all sorts of disorders such as memory loss, cancer, and Alzheimer’s disease. It is a synthetic derivative based on a compound found in the periwinkle plant. 

Ginseng 

Ginseng has been commonly used in China for centuries for its many benefits. It appears that ginseng not only reduces the symptoms of tinnitus, but may also even lessen the impact of hearing loss. 

Coenzyme Q10

Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) is an antioxidant that our bodies create on their own, but the amount of CoQ10 the body produces diminishes with age. It reduces blood pressure, helps migraines, and boosts overall physical performance.

Ginkgo biloba

Ginkgo biloba is probably the most common supplement in the world. It comes from a tree and it is thought to benefit every aspect of health, including hearing. 

Melatonin

Melatonin is the hormone that regulates your circadian clock. Your circadian clock determines the schedule and quality of your sleep. Tinnitus makes sleep difficult and not sleeping increases the severity of tinnitus. Melatonin can lessen the impact of this vicious circle. 

Your Answer Is Unique to You

While all of these vitamins, minerals, herbs, and supplements are believed to improve your hearing health, the human body is a complex system. It is uncommon that any simple answer would be right for everyone. And while supplements support treatment, none of them could ever suffice on their own. They supplement. They are not replacements for healthy lifestyle choices and proper medical treatment. They supplement it.

And it is important to remember that most health care professionals recommend caution when starting a new supplement. Without the proper support of fundamentally healthy habits, supplements can do more damage than good.

There is no substitute for the insight of a specialist to guide the exact treatment course just right for your unique case. Make an appointment today to get a full hearing exam. There is no substitute for the objective analysis that an exam provides.