As you might already know, extra weight is not a good thing for our health. However, did you know that being overweight can lead to conditions that can negatively impact your hearing? A recent study showed that women aged 18 – 40 years old are especially predisposed to hearing loss when obesity is present.
Obesity and Hearing Loss Study Details
The study included 40 women diagnosed with obesity and 40 healthy non-obese women. The results showed that women who were obese had trouble hearing higher frequency sounds. This is the first study of its kind to show that obesity may affect hearing function, especially where it relates to high frequency hearing loss. This also means that hearing loss of this kind can be prevented by avoiding obesity or losing weight.
More Risk Factors Attributed to Obesity
Aside from this particular study, it has been known for quite some time that other factors relating to obesity can end up causing hearing loss and other auditory issues. Those conditions include heart disease, high blood pressure, stroke, and diabetes. All of which can reduce the circulation and blood flow to the ears and the brain, which has a negative effect on hearing function and auditory processing. Diabetes is a condition that is often caused by and associated with obesity and poor diet. It has been known for some time that hearing loss is common in people who have diabetes.
Losing Weight and Eating Healthy
Once hearing loss is gone, it cannot be recovered. This is one more reason to consider healthy eating habits and losing weight. Fad diets aren’t the answer. Instead, resolving to maintain a healthy lifestyle and includes proper diet and exercise is the way to go. Several studies have also shown that exercise can help prevent hearing loss since it helps improve the circulation throughout the body, which includes the ears.
Consult with the Hearing Experts at Kenwood Hearing Center
Have questions about hearing loss or hearing aids? We are here to help! Please contact us today and schedule an appointment. The experts at Kenwood Hearing Center are here for you to help you with not only hearing loss, but your overall hearing health.