Hearing Impairments: Benefits of Canned Sardines for Hearing Health

Hearing health is an important, yet often underestimated, part of overall well-being. Proper nutrition can play a significant role in improving or maintaining good hearing function. Nutrient-dense and convenient, canned sardines are a great addition to your diet to help support hearing health.

Prevalence of hearing impairment in Lithuania

The prevalence of hearing loss varies between age groups. Hearing problems in older age are often caused by the natural aging process. Studies on hearing loss in Lithuanian children using cochlear implants have found that genetic factors, especially mutations in the GJB2 gene, are the main cause of hearing loss in children.

Statistical data on hearing loss in Lithuania

According to the European Hearing Aid Manufacturers Association ( EHIMA ) , in 2020, approximately 19.8% of the Lithuanian population – about 554,400 people – experience hearing impairment.

Although there are no exact annual diagnosis rates, the prevalence of conditions such as otosclerosis and noise-induced hearing loss highlights the importance of preventing these problems through proper nutrition. In addition, hearing aids can help improve quality of life.

Otosclerosis and the importance of vitamin D for hearing health

What is otosclerosis?

Otosclerosis is a condition in which abnormal bone tissue forms in the middle ear, interfering with the transmission of sound ( NIDCD ).

The effect of vitamin D on the prevention of otosclerosis

Vitamin D deficiency can worsen the symptoms of otosclerosis. Sardines, as a rich source of vitamin D and calcium, may help reduce the progression of this condition ( Better Health Victoria ).

Nutrition and hearing health

Why is nutrition important for hearing?

A healthy and balanced diet is essential for maintaining good hearing function. The nutrients in sardines help protect the auditory system and reduce the risk of degenerative changes.

Nutrients in sardines and their benefits for hearing

Omega-3 fatty acids

• Benefits: Sardines are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, especially DHA (docosahexaenoic acid) .
• Effect: DHA in the blood is associated with a lower risk of hearing loss ( Medical News Today, 2023 ).

Vitamin D

• Benefit: Vitamin D is important for bone health and calcium absorption.
• Effect: Sardines may help prevent vitamin D deficiency, which is often associated with otosclerosis ( AAO-HNS ).

Calcium and phosphorus

• Benefits: Sardines, whose soft bones are edible, are an excellent source of calcium and phosphorus.
• Effect: These minerals are essential for strong bones, which help transmit sounds effectively ( PubMed Study ).

Vitamin B12

• Benefit: Vitamin B12, which is abundant in sardines, supports nervous system health.
• Effects: Its deficiency can cause tinnitus or hearing loss ( National Library of Medicine ).

Antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties

• Benefit: Sardines have anti-inflammatory effects because they contain omega-3 fatty acids and selenium.
• Effects: These substances protect the auditory system from oxidative stress ( Nutrition.org ).

How to include sardines in your diet?

How often should you eat sardines?

It is recommended to consume sardines 1-2 times a week to ensure you get all the necessary nutrients.

Ways to use sardines

• Add sardines to salads, sandwiches, or pasta for a nutritious and quick meal.
• Combine them with leafy vegetables or nuts for a balanced diet.
• We invite you to browse through the recipes available in our store.

Why are canned sardines the best choice for hearing health?

Canned sardines are not only a practical and easily accessible food product, but also an important tool for maintaining good hearing health. The omega-3 , vitamin D , calcium and B12 they contain help reduce the risk of hearing problems and protect the auditory system from harmful factors.

Even if you already use hearing aids, sardines can be a beneficial part of your daily diet, strengthening overall hearing function.

Where to buy high-quality canned sardines in Lithuania?

High quality Portuguese sardines online

Our carefully selected canned fish products will ensure that your diet is not only delicious, but also potentially beneficial to your health. Visit : Sardinele.lt , Sardinele.lv or Sardinele.ee 

Sources used in the preparation of this article:

• EHIMA Report (2020)
• NIDCD
• Better Health Victoria
• Medical News Today
• AAO-HNS
• PubMed Study
• National Library of Medicine
• Nutrition.org