Vitamin D is essential for our health. A deficiency can lead to brittle, fragile bones or a weakened immune system. It is less commonly recognised that vitamin D deficiency has been linked to impaired hearing, as revealed by an American study.
Around 3,500, people aged 50 and over, took part in the research. Nearly 22% of them had a vitamin D deficiency. These people experienced notable hearing loss in both ears, especially when it came to low-frequency sounds like bass notes in music or deep male voices. The research was featured in the well-respected journal, Nutrition Research.
As a result, vitamin D seems to play a key role in ensuring healthy hearing function. To prevent a deficiency, make the most of a sunny day. Sunlight is an important source of vitamin D. The skin generates vitamin D when it is exposed to sunlight. Prolonged sunbathing is really not necessary. Spending time outdoors on a regular basis, ideally with your head uncovered and, when appropriate, with bare arms, is generally sufficient.
Older adults who rarely go outdoors might benefit from taking additional vitamin D. If you're unsure, it's best to ask your GP.
