Study links anaemia to hearing loss

Post on 22nd February 2017

We know a balanced diet is important for our general health to give us the nutrients we need, but have you heard that a lack of iron could lead to hearing loss?

Up to 30 percent of the world’s population are anaemic, mainly due to a lack of iron. Researchers at Pennsylvania State University, who studied the medical records of more than 300,000 people, have now found a link between iron deficiency anaemia and hearing loss

They discovered a lack of the mineral can cause sensorineural hearing loss – damage to the cochlea or nerve pathways – and it can also cause conductive hearing loss – problems with the bones in the middle of the ear.

Iron deficiency anaemia (IDA) is a condition where a lack of iron in the body leads to a reduction in the number of red blood cells.

More work is needed to better understand the correlation between IDA in adults and hearing loss but it certainly gives us food for thought.

If you want to increase your iron intake in your diet you could look to certain foods including dark-green leafy vegetables, iron-fortified cereals or bread, brown rice, pulses and beans, nuts and seeds, white and red meat, fish, tofu, eggs and dried fruit.

It also makes sense to include foods from all the major food groups to ensure it’s healthy and balanced. Food and drink containing vitamin C are important as vitamin C helps the body absorb iron.

If you have any concerns about your risk of iron deficiency you should consult your doctor. If you have worries about your hearing you can find help and advice and free hearing checks at your local Scrivens branch.