Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 2

Vitamin B, particularly B12 (cobalamin) and folate (B9), has been studied for its potential role in hearing health. The scientific interest stems from the observation that deficiencies in these vitamins can lead to neurological and vascular problems, which may affect the auditory system. Several studies have shown associations between low serum B12 or folate levels and an increased risk of age-related hearing loss or sudden sensorineural hearing loss (SSNHL). For example, a few small clinical studies and observational research have found that patients with SSNHL often have lower B12 or folate levels compared to healthy controls, and in some cases, supplementation improved hearing outcomes, especially when deficiency was present.

Mechanistically, B vitamins are involved in myelin formation, neurotransmitter synthesis, and homocysteine metabolism; elevated homocysteine (often present in B12/folate deficiency) is thought to contribute to cochlear damage via vascular or oxidative stress pathways. However, robust clinical trial evidence is limited. Large, well-controlled studies are lacking, and not all trials show benefit. The American Academy of Otolaryngology does not routinely recommend vitamin B supplementation for hearing loss except in cases of documented deficiency. Therefore, while there is a plausible biological rationale and some preliminary clinical evidence, overall the scientific support is weak, and supplementation should be targeted to those with confirmed deficiency rather than used as a general remedy for hearing loss.

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