Potassium is a vital nutrient that helps maintain normal fluid levels in our cells and plays a role in everything from lowering your blood pressure to keeping your bones healthy and strong. Some research has suggested that healthy levels of potassium protect your hearing health.
Higher Levels of Potassium May Reduce Hearing Loss Risk 
A study published in 2019 wanted to examine the association between potassium intake and hearing loss. Researchers looked at data from the Korean National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey as well as results from pure-tone audiometry tests. They determined that “high potassium intake levels were associated with a lower prevalence of hearing loss.”
Why Does Potassium Affect Hearing Health?
Potassium can help keep the fluid level balanced in your inner ear. Additionally, eating a diet rich in potassium can help lower blood pressure. High blood pressure can increase your risk of developing hearing loss by disrupting blood flow to the ear.
Should You Take a Potassium Supplement?
While potassium is essential to your health, you should not take a potassium supplement unless you are advised to do so by your doctor. At higher doses, potassium can cause potentially serious health issues, including stomach problems, muscle weakness and an irregular heartbeat. Instead, aim to get the recommended daily amount of potassium through a healthy diet.
Eating a Diet That Benefits Hearing Health
Diets that help reduce your risk of heart disease, diabetes and other metabolic conditions can also protect your hearing health. This usually includes foods like fruits, vegetables, whole grains, fish, beans and lean protein while avoiding foods high in sugar and unhealthy fats.
To increase your dietary potassium specifically, make sure to pick up some of the following foods the next time you’re at the grocery store or Charleston Farmers Market:
- Bananas
- Potatoes
- Spinach
- Apricot
- Tomatoes
- Oranges
- Melons
- Pineapple
- Milk
- Lima beans
When To Get Your Hearing Checked by a Professional
While a healthy diet can go a long way toward protecting your hearing, there are many other causes of hearing loss, and not all of which are in your control. The best thing you can do for any hearing loss you might experience is to treat it early. If you notice any of the following signs, schedule an appointment for a hearing test:
- Voices seem muffled.
- You find yourself asking people to repeat themselves frequently.
- You struggle to follow conversations in places with lots of background noise.
- Phone conversations are difficult to understand.
- You need to turn the volume up louder when watching TV or listening to the radio.
- Family and friends have commented on your hearing.
If the results of your hearing test show that you have permanent hearing loss, your audiologist will work with you to find the best hearing aids or other assistive listening devices to meet your needs.
For more information or to schedule an appointment today, call the experts at Charleston ENT & Allergy.