Soldiers, welders, construction workers, music listeners and the aging population are among those at risk of hearing loss. Loud noises and the aging process contribute to auditory deficits. Cellular mutations, called free radicals, may promote this loss of hearing, according to University of Michigan Health System. Certain naturally occurring vitamins and vitamin combinations act as antioxidants ridding the body of free radicals.
Vitamins A, C and E
According to University of Michigan Health System, research reveals a combination of antioxidants and minerals may protect individuals, from noise-induced hearing loss, who consume the combination several days after exposure. Vitamins A, C and E and magnesium prevented noise-induced hearing loss among guinea pigs. Hearing loss after extreme noise levels results in damage to the inner ear when excessive free radicals are present. This vitamin-mineral combination is thought to eliminate free radicals in the inner ear and prevent permanent damage. Sources of vitamin A include carrots, pumpkin and sweet potatoes. Vitamin C is found in oranges, grapefruit and apples. Olives, nuts and seeds provide a natural source of vitamin E.
Vitamin H
Vitamin H, otherwise known as biotin, alleviates symptoms of biotinidase deficiency. Biotinidase deficiency is an inherited disorder characterized by hearing loss, visual disturbances, seizures and skin problems. Biotin helps treat the deficiency by binding to an enzyme and restoring sensory deficits. Foods containing biotin include cooked eggs, mushrooms, soybeans, walnuts and sardines.
Vitamin B9
Vitamin B9, also known as folic acid or folate, is associated with age-related hearing loss. According to a 2010 study published in "Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery," adults over the age of 60 with low levels of folic acid significantly increased their risk of high-frequency hearing loss, or hearing loss with high-pitch sounds. Folate plays a role in metabolizing cells, such as free radicals. Sources of folic acid include enriched cereals, nuts, romaine lettuce, peas and spinach.
Vitamin B12
Similar to folic acid, vitamin B12 is also associated with age-related hearing loss. Vitamin B12 and folic acid help regulate homocysteine levels. Homocysteine is an amino acid aiding in vascular health. Poor vascular functioning is associated with cochlear dysfunction, a common cause of age-related hearing loss. Additionally, vitamin B12 deficiencies were linked to an auditory disorder called tinnitus, a roaring or ringing in the ears affecting your ability to hear. Foods with vitamin B12 include eggs, dairy products, seaweed, fish and chicken.
References
- University of Michigan Health System; Nutrients Might Prevent Hearing Loss in War Zones, Concert Halls and Workplaces, New Animal Study Suggests; Anne Rueter; March 2007
- University of Maryland Medical Center; Vitamin H (Biotin); Steven D. Ehrlich; June 2009
- University of Utah Health Care; Hearing Loss in Elderly May Be Linked to Folate Deficiency; December 2010
- University of Kentucky; Age-Related Hearing Loss Linked to Folate Deficiency; Raleigh O. Jones; August 2010
- University of California-San Diego; Vitamin B12; January 2009
