Q: What are some ways I can elevate the flavor and nutrition of an omelet?

A: Omelets are generally a healthy and versatile option for breakfast or brunch. Seasoning is beneficial when preparing the eggs, and one ingredient to really up their flavor profile is white pepper. Unlike black pepper, white pepper tends to be milder in spice level, so it doesn’t overpower the palate or other flavors in the dish. Whipped egg whites are also a good option, because they’re nutritious and make the omelet fluffy. After plating, diced green onions add a nice color contrast; furthermore, they have vitamins A, C, and K.

Chelsea Conley, Manager

Coffee Republic

6610 Folsom-Auburn Road, Suite 2, Folsom, 916-987-8001, coffeerepublicfolsom.com 

Q: What are the warning signs that I have a hearing loss?

A: Common warning signs that one has a hearing loss are the following:

• Difficulties hearing when there’s
background noise.

• Asking others to repeat.

• Asking others to speak louder.

• Difficulties hearing women and
children’s voices.

• Trouble hearing high-pitched sounds
and consonants.

• Turning the television or radio louder
than others prefer it to be.

• Withdrawing from social situations or
settings.

Keep in mind: The majority of hearing loss begins with losing the high frequencies first while other hearing loss affects the low- and mid-frequencies. Hearing loss can be caused by excessive exposure to loud noise, aging, ototoxic drugs, diabetes, viral infections, ear infections, and excessive cerumen buildup in the ear canal. It’s imperative to obtain a baseline-hearing test to determine if there are changes with your hearing and monitor it over time.

Roselynn Young, Au.D., CCC-A

Roseville Diagnostic Hearing Center

1411 Secret Ravine Parkway, Suite 120, Roseville, 916-780-4200, rosevillediagnostichearingcenter.com