Hearing loss and exercise

We all know that exercise can prevent many age-related problems and diseases. Did you know that it can also be a protective measure for hearing loss? Improving your cardiovascular system, reducing inflammation, and your Body Mass Index can all have a major impact on your hearing. Exercise improves cardiovascular health Exercise reduces age-related inflammation and improves cardiovascular health. The blood circulation to your body and ears increases. This rising blood flow protects you against hearing loss. It also supplies more fluid, oxygen, and energy to every part of the body and ensures everything works properly. Health issues and problems are more likely with less blood flow. Inflammation The anti-inflammatory effects of exercise can keep disease and other issues at bay. Chronic inflammation can cause hearing loss. It can also serve as the catalyst for diabetes, heart disease, and arthritis. Over a long period of time, it can lead to cancer and Crohn’s disease.

What is inflammation? Inflammation is a result of injury or distress in the body. It can be the result of prolonged stress, an irritant, or pathogens (bacteria, viruses, and other organisms). It is our body’s way of fighting off a foreign invader. Over a period of time, inflammation can cause significant damage to the body and should be controlled. Anti-inflammatory foodsAnti-inflammatory foods include olive oil, vegetables, fruits, fish, and nuts. BMI A higher BMI can increase your risk of hearing loss. The reasons are related to increased damage over time to your oxygen levels and a rise in the production of free radicals due to more fat cells. Another side effect of an increased waistline (more than 88cm) is the reduced production of the protein hormone adiponectin. Adiponectin is an anti-inflammatory, which we already know reduces the risk of hearing loss.

Hearing loss and exercise

Exercise can be a risk factor for hearing loss when music is used during your workout regimen. Whether you are using air pods or listening to loud music during a pilates class, it’s important to keep it at a reasonable level.

Sounds are measured in decibels and the highest decibel for a workout should not exceed 85 decibels. Any exposure to sounds that exceed 85 dB, for over an hour, can lead to permanent, noise-induced hearing loss.

Exercise does play a role in every aspect of your health and hearing is no exception. Health experts recommend at least 150 minutes of exercise a week which translates into 30 minutes a day, five times a week. Do what you love and have a workout buddy that will help motivate you. The payoff is big and long-lasting!

Source: Harvard Health