4 Dietary Strategies for Meniere’s Sufferers

There are several hallmark symptoms that characterize Meniere’s disease.  Vertigo, tinnitus (ringing in the ear), hearing loss, and a feeling of fullness in the ear are classic symptoms of this condition that involves the structures of the inner ear.  When someone is diagnosed with Meniere’s disease, they will likely be treated with medications to address the vertigo and dizziness.  Sometimes, dietary changes are also encouraged.

Dietary recommendations for Meniere’s sufferers are aimed at attempting to regulate overall fluid balance in the body.  Modifying and/or reducing the intake of the following substances might help take the edge off the symptoms of Meniere’s disease:

1. High sugar content foods – foods with complex sugars, such as whole grains, are better choices than those with simple sugars, like honey or table sugar.
2. High salt content foods – sodium intake can impact the regulation of fluids in the body.
3. Caffeinated foods and beverages – reducing or eliminating caffeinated beverages, such as coffee and soda, may help reduce the severity of tinnitus.  Also, be aware of caffeine-containing foods such as chocolate.
4. Alcohol – alcohol can directly affect the fluid within the inner ear

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Getting to the Cause of Meniere’s

Though no definitive answers are available, there are several theories out there that attempt to explain why Meniere’s disease occurs.  Some researchers believe that Meniere’s disease is similar to migraines in the sense that it may involve the abnormal constriction of blood vessels.  Other theories point to an autoimmune reaction or allergy.

One thing we can all be certain of is that the nervous system is in control over all of the other systems of the body.  This includes the immune system, the vascular system, and the endocrine system.  Regardless of which proposed theory is eventually deemed correct, it is imperative that the nervous system is in good working order.  As an upper cervical chiropractor, I look for very specific misalignments of the vertebrae at the top of the neck.  The atlas (C1) and axis (C2) vertebrae protect a critical area of the central nervous system–the brainstem–which is the center of operations for all of the automatic functions of our body.  If there is an obstruction in this area, it can create the conditions under which Meniere’s disease can develop.

In a recent study of 300 Meniere’s sufferers, 100% were found to have misalignments of the upper cervical spine.  If you’ve been troubled by Meniere’s disease and traditional approaches aren’t sufficing, having your upper cervical spinal alignment checked could be the first step toward lasting relief.

References:

https://www.nidcd.nih.gov/health/menieres-disease

http://vestibular.org/understanding-vestibular-disorders/treatment/vestibular-diet

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