As we grow older, our risk of hearing loss increases, and our diet plays a major role. Apparently, there is a link between hearing loss and being deficient in an omega-3 fatty acid that we get from oily fish and fish oil supplements. This was seen in a study that was presented in Boston at a meeting for the American Society for Nutrition – an American company for professional researchers and practitioners in nutrition. The scientists mention that increased intake of this particular omega-3 fatty acid from the diet or from supplements may help prevent hearing loss.

Our risk of hearing loss increases as we grow older, and the nutrients in our diet appear to play a major role. According to a population study published in Frontiers in Nutrition, magnesium and calciumin the right amounts can lower the risk of age-related hearing loss. Apparently, different mechanisms and interactions between the two minerals can prevent impaired hearing.

The ageing process is often associated with hearing loss, and many people develop tinnitus – a condition characterised by unpleasant sounds of varying types and intensities. However, evidence suggests that patients suffering from age-related tinnitus may experience relief and improved sleep quality by taking Q10 supplements. This is supported by a randomised placebo-controlled trial (RCT) published in the Iranian Journal of Otorhinolaryngology. In the study, the authors also highlight the role of Q10 in cellular energy metabolism and its function as an important antioxidant that protects cells from damage. The natural production of Q10 declines with age and is further reduced by the use of cholesterol-lowering statins, which is problematic since a Q10 deficiency may also increase the risk of other age-related degenerative diseases.