Is there a role for manganese in either the treatment or as a causative factor with Meniere’s Disease? Some nutritionists and doctors specializing in cellular nutrition may believe it can help relieve symptoms while most ENT doctors will probably know nothing about it or dismiss it. If it doesn’t show up on peer reviewed studies or papers in PubMed then most doctors may dismiss it, regardless of any other reports or evidence.
Timothy Haine MD, who writes on the internet about Meniere’s, dismisses the use of manganese as just another in his long list of “placebo effect”, claiming there are zero peer reviewed studies published on PubMed. This is the man who refers to the bioflavonoids from lemon and vitamin C in Lipoflavonoid as a, “mysterious substance” as he consigns that too to his list of ‘Placebo’ effect probabilities.
Both vitamin C and flavonoids combined with other nutrients have been used with great success over the years for Meniere’s and to so flippantly dismiss their successful use as “placebo” shows a lack of understanding, or willful ignorance as to the importance of both reducing inflammation and improving micro-circulation through nutrition in Meniere’s disease. It also shows a complete disdain and ignorance of the importance of nutrition in general. Shocking perhaps, but unsurprising considering the almost total reliance on synthetic drugs in mainstream medicine.
The easy answer to this attitude is to ask the question, how many Meniere’s sufferers has mainstream medicine actually “cured”? Moreover, how many Meniere’s sufferers can live even partially symptom free through synthetic drugs? Ask a medical doctor how much they studied nutrition in their years of medical school and you will be lucky if they answer that it was more than one afternoon. Which drugs are used for treating what condition will be well known or easily accessible yet a significant understanding of nutritional biology, the very foundation of human health, is often sadly lacking. Many drugs block or prevent natural biological processes while the right nutrition can help the body balance these processes and correct them when there is dysfunction.
In the experiences of Meniere’s Help readers who have contacted us over 12 years, for many the right nutrition has helped them stay symptom free and lipoflavonoid is best used in conjunction with other supplements ( See more about supplementation here )
Unfortunately the testimonials of real sufferers who are the very people who experience every symptom, pain, relief and cure, are too often discarded as mere “hearsay”. The fact is that very few clinical studies will ever be done to prove the effectiveness or curative powers of anything natural because this cannot be patented and profited from by the huge pharmaceutical corporations. Research into synthetic drugs will receive multi million dollar funding simply because these drugs can be patented and profited from.
With all this said, regarding peer reviewed studies on PubMed that Haine bases his opinions on, there is indeed a south American study (translated from Spanish) indexed: ‘Efficacy of the treatment of Ménière’s disease with oligoelements’
Oligoelements are trace elements including manganese and magnesium.
The 2003 study published in the Anales of Otorrinolaringologicols Ibero-Americanos stated:
“There are significant differences of better results in Ménières treated with olygoelements.”
The study did a split test of 68 Meniere’s sufferers. 34 were treated with drugs and 34 treated with oligoelements.
The reported results were: “In the descriptive statistics we find better results in the Ménières treated with olygoelements than in those that were not treated”
Manganese was used in this Meniere’s Disease study
[Oligo Elements are bioavailable forms of trace minerals that can be rapidly absorbed. Oligo Elements unlock the various metabolic processes which generate functional or infectious diseases. These bioavailable elements work by normalizing enzyme and hormonal functions in order to regulate homeostasis (balance) in the body.]
There is little to no literature about manganese deficiency being related to Meniere’s directly, so why might it help?
Doctor Laurent Bannock. author of The Clinical Nutrition Desk Reference recommends manganese in his supplementation regimen for Meniere’s and states that , “Deficiencies have been linked to ear problems”
Manganese is a component of manganese superoxide dismutase (MnSOD) which has been shown to be a powerful antioxidant that fights inflammation. Reducing inflammation by supporting the immune system with powerful antixodants is one of the main functions of the supplement regimen talked about on Meniere’s Help that has worked so well for well over a decade for thousands of sufferers.
Manganese plays an important role in a number of physiologic processes as a constituent of multiple enzymes and an activator of other enzymes.
Manganese superoxide dismutase (MnSOD) is the principal antioxidant enzyme in the mitochondria. Because mitochondria consume over 90% of the oxygen used by cells, they are especially vulnerable to oxidative stress. The superoxide radical is one of the reactive oxygen species produced in mitochondria. MnSOD catalyzes the conversion of superoxide radicals to hydrogen peroxide, which can be reduced to water by other antioxidant enzymes. [Mitochondria is found in large numbers in most cells, in which the biochemical processes of respiration and energy production occur. Often known as the powerhouse of the cells]
Although manganese deficiency is not common, deficiency has been linked with several serious diseases such as osteoporosis, type 2 diabetes and epilepsy but not directly linked to Meniere’s. It has however been linked to some symptoms of Meniere’s and other conditions with links to Meniere’s.
Conversely, at very high levels of exposure manganese can be toxic, and has been linked to several conditions including Parkinson’s Disease and thyroid dysfunctions.
With that in mind, the importance of balanced nutrition rather than stand alone supplementation can not be underestimated. As vitamins, minerals, trace elements and enzymes all work in synergy it is important that the balance is right.
Comprehensive supplementation
Dr Tim Wood Ph.D explains in ‘Comprehensive Supplementation Delivers What Stand-Alones’ Can’t‘:
“Many people approach nutritional supplementation in piecemeal fashion.
For instance, some use stand-alone vitamin E products to promote cardiovascular health. Others buy stand-alone calcium supplements to protect against osteoporosis. Some use vitamin C and zinc to reduce cold and flu symptoms. And still others change their supplement regime every month, according to the latest magazine articles they have read.
None of these approaches –focusing on one or two essential nutrients and ignoring all the others–is satisfactory. In fact, they run counter to the most basic principles of nutrition and health.
Our bodies, and each of the cells that compose them, are complex, living systems comprising diverse structures (organs and organelles) that carry out a multitude of integrated biological functions.
At the cellular level, membranes, mitochondria, ribosomes, and the nucleus work in concert to regulate the conveyance of materials into and out of the cell; metabolize carbohydrates and fats; synthesise proteins; and guide cellular growth, division, and differentiation.
Similarly, our bodies’ organs have distinct but integrated functions. Our digestive, circulatory, nervous, skeletal, and immune systems collaborate to allow us to acquire and break down foods, absorb and transport nutrients, detoxify metabolites, and fight infections.
All these processes, at both the cellular and whole-body levels, are intimately linked in the web of interactions we call “life.”
The well-being of the whole depends on the integrity and immutable function of all the parts; and in this sense, health is truly holistic.
As complex, integrated systems, our cells and our bodies require a full comlement of essential vitamins and minerals to survive and remain healthy.
The B vitamins–thiamine, riboflavin, niacin, pantothenic acid, pyridoxine, folic acid and cyanocobalamin–for example, are essential to cellular metabolism (energy usage and the synthesis of proteins, DNA, and other biological compounds).
We require vitamin C for the synthesis of connective tissues.
We need vitamin D, vitamin K, calcium, magnesium, and phosphorus for normal bone development. Copper, zinc, manganese and selenium are necessary for peak enzyme structure and function.
The list goes on, but the salient point is this: All the essential nutrients are needed all the time.
Withhold just one nutrient, or provide too much or too little of it, and a given aspect of metabolism slows.
And because our bodies are integrated systems, when one component or function slows, our overall health deteriorates.
We also need a diverse array of antioxidants; that is, molecules that neutralize free radicals and prevent oxidative damage.
Vitamins C and E are the best known of the dietary antioxidants.
But for complete, long-term protection, we need broader antioxidant defenses. In other words, we require a more extensive spectrum of antioxidant compounds, some of which are water-soluble, some fat-soluble, some that neutralize one class of free radicals (e.g., hydroxyl anions), and some that neutralize another (e.g., singlet oxygen).
Furthermore, various antioxidants accumulate in and protect different parts of the body.
Vitamin C is thought to accumulate in the lens of the eye where it affords protection from cataracts. Two carotenoids–beta-carotene and lutein–accumulate in the skin and protect it from the sun’s damaging rays. Lutein also accumulates in the macula of the eye, reducing oxidative stress and the risk of macular degeneration. Vitamin E is absorbed into cell membranes, protecting them from oxidative stress. Coenzyme Q10 protects mitochondria (the powerhouses of the cell) from free-radical damage. And some bioflavonoids are thought to be important in protecting the integrity of blood vessels.
In short, comprehensive antioxidant protection requires that we consume not only vitamins C and E, but also a full spectrum of antioxidant molecules, all of which are essential for long-term health.
In summary, then, our bodies’ cells are complex, integrated living systems requiring all the essential vitamins, antioxidants and minerals–in adequate and balanced amounts–to survive and thrive.
Provide just one of the essential nutrients in insufficient amounts, or provide less than broad-spectrum antioxidant protection, and cellular function declines and our overall health deteriorates.
These fundamental principles provide the basis for nutritional approaches to long-term health.
Importantly, they apply both to diet and supplement use. The importance of a balanced and varied diet is self-evident. We know that it is important to eat a diet that supplies a wide array of nutrient-dense foods; a diet rich in fruits and vegetables and one that supplies all the essential micro-nutrients, including the right amounts and kinds of carbohydrate, protein, and fat.
It is just as important to take a comprehensive and balanced approach to nutrient supplementation.
Research has shown that diets in industrialized countries generally fail to supply even minimal levels of many of the essential vitamins, antioxidants and minerals.
These deficits are particularly worrisome for vitamins A, E and B6, as well as for folate, calcium, magnesium, zinc and copper.
Furthermore, we now know that advanced levels of many of the essential nutrients–including vitamin E, vitamin D, and selenium–far in excess of Recommended Daily Allowances, are required to support long-term health.
As such, supplementing our diets with just one or two of the essential nutrients is not enough.
Each of us needs to take a complete vitamin, antioxidant, and mineral supplement as the foundation for our supplementation program.
The nutritional products you choose should provide all the essential nutrients. They should comprise a complete range of cofactors (e.g., choline) and a diverse group of antioxidants (including carot-enoids and bioflavonoids) –nutrients that have not traditionally been considered essential but which are now known to be required for long-term health.
Furthermore, a comprehensive supplement must provide the nutrients in balanced amounts and at doses shown to promote lifelong health.
None of us would think of limiting our diets to just broccoli and green tea just because we have read that both of these foods can help reduce the risk of cancer.
Common sense forbids it. Apply this same common sense and the fundamental principles of nutrition in choosing your nutritional supplements. Choose a high quality, comprehensive nutritional supplement as the basis of your program. Your health depends on it.”
Although there is no direct link to Meniere’s from manganese deficiency, there have been studies showing links to ear problems and the use of manganese as part of supplement regimen is known to be beneficial. Manganese may not hold the same importance to Meniere’s as Magnesium but as an important part of balanced dietary intake it should not be underestimated.
Dietary changes and supplementation is not thought of as either a treatment or a cure. People can live completely or almost completely symptom free as a result of the strengthening of their immune system through supplementation and a healthy balanced diet free of health damaging processed and junk foods.
Identifying and eliminating the individual root cause and triggers is the only way to actually cure yourself from Meniere’s completely. This is something we have been focusing on for the past 7 years and continue to do so.
It can be done, has been done and is being done all the time.
Help other Meniere’s sufferers. Have you used Manganese supplementation with Meniere’s or have you been tested and found to be deficient? Tell us all about it in the comments boxes below or email Mike at meniereshelp@gmail.com
With many sufferers, Meniere’s and anxiety go hand in hand. The sheer stress of constant symptoms and the worry that vertigo attacks can strike unexpectedly is enough to bring anyone down to lows they had never experienced before pre-Meniere’s. But if you already suffered from clinical anxiety and you now have Meniere’s it can be a different story. It becomes a chicken and egg scenario and can be too much to take.
If you suffer from both Meniere’s disease and anxiety then you will want to read Sarah’s story below. The links to Meniere’s and stress are perhaps underscored in her story and it is always nice to hear success stories like this to give sufferers hope.
Also see below Sarah’s story the connection between anxiety disorders and gut health, which can be a very important though often overlooked factor.
Sarah’s success story with Meniere’s disease and anxiety
Why My Story Will Shock You…And How After What Seemed To Be An Endless 3 Year Battle, I Eventually Rid Myself Of Anxiety And Panic Attacks Within Days. Soon afterwards my Meniere’s was a thing of the past too.
I am now healthy again and have my life back.
If you’re thinking about using outdated anxiety techniques like deep breathing, supplements, drugs, or any other product to get rid of anxiety, I’m extremely relieved that you’ve found my story because not only will my story shock you, it’ll almost certainly save your health, your money as well as a lot of time and heartache.
I suffered from anxiety disorder and I had the added horror of suffering from Meniere’s disease. The Meniere’s I did mostly control with supplements and diet but it wasn’t until I rid myself of my problems with anxiety that I fully recovered from that too. The anxiety and Meniere’s became a vicious circle and it was impossible to know which was causing which. I thought I would go over the edge crazy with it all. Perhaps I did at times.
Below I will tell you exactly why over a 3 year period I tried but was forced to give up with Paxil, Seredyn and a range of other products and programs……and how I finally managed to get rid of my anxiety and panic attacks completely with a unique program called ‘Panic Away’. It was so simple in the end it is hard to believe it be honest.
My Name is Sarah Martin and like so many other people who suffer from panic attacks and general anxiety, I spent so much time and money desperately trying to find a cure.
Until 3 years ago I’d never had any emotional problems at all. I had always felt I was a pretty easy going balanced person who didn’t really fret over anything. Suddenly a few years ago my husband’s business started to have problems and our income dropped dramatically. I wouldn’t have minded but we had recently bought a house and the loan was just a little more than we could really afford.
My own job started to become increasingly stressful and my whole lifestyle was altered. I was sleeping a lot less and my diet became quite poor, which was very unlike me.
I Started To Feel A Shocking Sense Of Anxiety
My self confidence and confidence in my home situation both began to slip away, and things that had never bothered me before would eat away at me and I started to struggle continuously with anxious thoughts. I couldn’t believe these minor things could have such an effect on me. But even so, I still didn’t really feel I had problems. I still felt generally healthy and always liked to keep fit.
Then It Really Hit Me
My first panic attack really shocked and scared me. I had just gone to bed. I was very tired but couldn’t sleep. I suddenly felt shaky, nauseous and dizzy. I started to physically panic. My heart was beating out of my chest and I couldn’t breathe properly, my throat felt swollen and thought I was going to die. I know it sounds crazy but I really thought I was going to pass out and die. I shook my husband trying to scream but my voice had no power and I started sobbing. He woke up and hugged me and calmed me down. I couldn’t believe what had just happened to me and thought I was really starting to lose my mind.
I started having anxiety attacks like this at the strangest of times and would panic over the slightest little thing. I couldn’t find the sugar or remember someone’s telephone number. I just couldn’t understand what was wrong with me. But I knew I had to get some help and soon. The final straw was not being able to face the idea of looking after my sister’s little daughter, who I absolutely adore.
Soon the first symptoms of Meniere’s appeared, tinnitus and and blocked ear. That is another long story altogether though. I honestly feel this was brought on by the anxiety.
I found it hard to go and see my doctor and felt embarrassed to talk to him about what was happening to me. He said I had “general anxiety disorder” and was suffering from “panic attacks”. Well I think I could have told him the latter.
I Tried Paxil But Had To Stop
The doctor told me if I took Paxil I would probably be okay within 3 weeks. I was very apprehensive about taking an anti-depressant and felt ashamed about it. I was right to feel apprehensive. It didn’t agree with me at all. I began to feel like a zombie. I had always loved exercise and had a “healthy appetite”, I loved cooking and loved eating even more. On Paxil, I felt so weak I could hardly be bothered to get out of bed, let alone get up for my morning jog, forget that. I had no appetite at all and to top this I would break out in sweats and would shake all the time. I had other side effects that I am too embarrassed to even mention and my love life suffered greatly.
I was a totally different person, and my husband was so worried he begged me to come off the Paxil and try something else. I was scared and insisted we wait at least three months. After two months I realized I had to give up on this and try something else. It was not easy coming off it though, so be warned.
Then I Tried Zoloft And Suffered Added Side Effects
I only lasted a month on Zoloft. I suffered more embarrassing female problems and still felt drained all the time, would break out in sweats and had the added problem of feeling more dizzy than before with Meniere’s and my joints would ache all the time, sometimes swelling up. Sometimes I had this really strange feeling, as though electric shocks were shooting through my body. I know it sounds odd, but it is the only way I can explain it. With the help of my husband I quickly got off the these drugs. It wasn’t easy though. Again I felt scared. After quitting I felt like I had a horrible Flu and my body ached. And my Meniere’s was getting worse and worse.
I Tried Seredyn And Failed
After my experiences with Paxil and Zoloft I wanted to get away from the idea of drugs. I found information on the internet about a supplement called Seredyn. It is supposed to be natural so seemed like a much better alternative. I had a few side effects but nothing like as bad as the drugs. I still felt tired all the time and sometimes had headaches and an upset stomach. I could live with these but ultimately it didn’t really help me. I still found myself having attacks and felt pretty anxious all the time. It didn’t help being anxious about about a vertigo attack striking any moment. Ironically while my condition was getting worse, my original worries, financial worries, were getting better! My husband’s business picked up again and my own workload decreased to a sensible level again. You’d think the anxiety and panic attacks would go away with this but it didn’t. I just couldn’t understand it.
I started getting all kinds of health problems and the horrors of Meniere’s disease could fill a book. In fact I am thinking of writing one.
Finally I Tried Therapy But It Just Didn’t Help
Finally I tried a “therapist”, who was suggested to me by a friend. Her “talk therapy” sessions and deep breathing were of absolutely no help at all. She was a very nice lady but unfortunately she couldn’t help me. This was all starting to get me seriously depressed.
Eventually, I Found Something That Worked
Having spent so much time, money and energy desperately trying to succeed with pills, supplements and therapy that ultimately had very little effect except make me feel worse in other ways was a big regret and made me very pessimistic and negative. This negativity only made my Meniere’s worse I am sure. However the next thing I tried was called Panic Away and to my surprise it actually worked.
I had read a little about it before while searching on the internet, but because of my recent experiences, despite all the apparent credibility in the media, I thought it sounded a little dubious. After reading some extremely complimentary reviews though, and learning that the cost was minimal compared to everything else I had tried, I decided to give it a go.
Here’s Why I Recommend It
The reason why I recommend Panic Away is because I followed their instructions for a matter of days and the results were almost unbelievable. The happy go lucky Sarah everyone knew before is back 🙂
Although it did take a little longer for me to feel better than it says on the web site. I did manage to completely rid myself of anxiety and feel better in a few days, which if you suffer like I did, I am sure you’ll agree is pretty astonishing. I am now at a stage where my confidence has fully returned and I can go about my day happily and go to bed without the fear of another panic attack and I no longer have Meniere’s symptoms. I wake up happy and feeling positive and I am back in the gym and running again in the mornings, something I wouldn’t have thought possible just short time ago. And best of all I get to spend quality time with my niece again.
In my opinion, this was safer, easier and far far more effective than the other products I tried. I guess everyone is different but it worked wonders for me. The best part for me is that it is so simple, quick and effective and they even give you other really helpful advice, for example on what to eat and what not to eat with this condition. The exercises are so simple and easy and you don’t even have to order any special pills or drugs from a website or anything like that.
Anyway, I hope you have found this information useful, whatever your situation because if I had known about Panic Away 3 years ago I could have rid myself of the horrible anxiety I was feeling and the panic attacks long ago and without wasting so much of my time and money on these other things I tried.
When Mike Spencer from Meniere’s Help asked me if he could use my story to help others I was very eager to get writing and help.
I read through a lot of the Meniere’s Help website and read Mike’s amazing book, The Need for Balance and I have to say that helped me recover from Meniere’s. It also made me understand the very real links between stress, anxiety and Meniere’s. I wouldn’t want anyone to suffer with Meniere’s or Anxiety disorder like I did. I thought my life was over. But I want you to know you really can get over it. Look at me, here I am now back to the old happy go lucky me. I hope my short story helps others the way other people’s stories helped me find my way.
The important connections of gut health and anxiety
The origins of depression and anxiety can often be traced to gut health, or rather the lack of it. Considering gut health has also been linked to Meniere’s disease in at least some people, understanding this and knowing how to keep your gut healthy must be an important factor in keeping both anxiety and Meniere’s out of your life.
As far back as the 1900’s scientists and health professionals emphasized the relationship between gastrointestinal health and mental health. At some point in the following three decades this opinion was flipped upside down and it was thought that mental health influenced gut health.
However, interest and knowledge of the importance of gut health is now at an all time high. The understanding of gut bacteria has increased greatly in recent times. Studies and exploration into gut health has revealed that gut bacteria imbalances are related to mood and behavior issues.
Diet, environment and the state of the immune system are all influential in gut health and therefore mental health and indirectly the health of the ear.
Dr Group of the global healing center explains how the gut is connected to the brain:
“The gut is connected to the brain via the vagus nerve, the enteric nervous system, and the gut-brain axis. The vagus nerve extends from the brain stem down into the neck, thorax, and abdomen. The nerve exits the brain stem through rootlets in the medulla that are caudal to the rootlets for the ninth cranial nerve. The vagus nerve supplies motor parasympathetic fibers to all organs except adrenal glands, all the way from the neck down to the second segment of the transverse colon. It helps regulate heart rate, speech, sweating, and various gastrointestinal functions.
The enteric nervous system connects with the central nervous system. It contains 200-600 million neurons. Local and centrally projecting sensory neurons in the gut wall monitor mechanical conditions in the gut wall. Local circuit neurons, on the other hand, integrate this information. This enables motor neurons to influence the activity of the smooth muscles in the gut wall and glandular secretions such as digestive enzymes, mucus, stomach acid, and bile.
The enteric nervous system has been referred to as a “second brain” because of its ability to operate autonomously and communicate with the central nervous system through the parasympathetic (i.e., via the vagus nerve) and sympathetic nervous systems.
Finally, the gut-brain axis consists of bidirectional communication between the central and the enteric nervous system, linking emotional and cognitive centers of the brain with peripheral intestinal functions. There is strong evidence from animal studies that gut microorganisms can activate the vagus nerve and play a critical role in mediating effects on the brain and behavior.”
Research has shown the gut microbiota influences brain chemistry and behavior. For example, people who suffer from irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and the associated cramping, abdominal pain, bloating, gas, diarrhea, and constipation, commonly suffer from depression and anxiety as well.
How to help or Restore Your Gut Flora
A healthy diet is one way to encourage a healthy gastrointestinal tract. Base your diet on fruits and vegetables. Add fermented foods, such as kefir and yogurt, to your diet for a good, natural source of probiotics.
If you don’t consume probiotic foods, consider taking a high-strain probiotic supplement.
Ashwagandha for anxiety
The stress hormone cortisol constricts blood vessels and affects blood flow. Impaired blood flow has been connected to the symptoms of Meniere’s disease. The human body is wired so that ‘fight or flight’ stress both shuts down the immune system and send the blood to the legs and arms.
Normally the body is in a constant state of cell regeneration but in times of extreme stress, anxiety and fear the energy is sent to the limbs in order for the escape danger. The energy is taken from regeneration mode to fight or flight mode. This is a mechanism hard wired into us over millions of years of evolution.
In today’s world we have constant drip feeding of stress and anxiety and often this drip feeding turns into a gushing river. This constant state of fear and anxiety is making for a very sick population.
Studies have shown that ashwagandha extract is able to lower levels of cortisol, the stress hormone, in people with chronic stress. The herb also eases self-reported anxiety, depression, and stress.
Clinical studies have shown ashwagandha to be very helpful to calm anxiety.
Help other Meniere’s Sufferers: What are your experiences with Meniere’s and anxiety, depression or stress. Tell us all about it using the comments boxes below or email Mike at meniereshelp@gmail.com
Can blue light glasses help stop vertigo during screen time? With my timeline on Facebook plastered in stories about Hillary Clinton wearing special “blue light” sunglasses to stop seizures, it made me wonder if there were anything like this to help light sensitivity and vertigo?
Do you suffer from light sensitivity?
Do computer screens, florescent lights and even the TV trigger vertigo attacks?
This was something that I suffered terribly from when I was really sick with Meniere’s. I am sure many of you find computer screens and TV etc can spark attacks, so I did a quick search on google to see what I could find.
After sifting through page after page of the Clinton story I came up with a study on NIH related to epilepsy:
I looked on Amazon to see if they sell any and indeed they do. Prices range from nearly $90 down to around $10. So these glasses must widely available and easily accessible.
I posted immediately in a Meniere’s groups and the first comment to appear confirmed that these glasses did indeed help stop vertigo attacks:
“I use blue light goggles, and they help . I consulted Consumer Reports and they rated the cheap 8$ ones as filtering out the most blue light ( 70% I think ). They are not attractive but I don’t go into a store with fluorescent lighting without them or use any screen without them . . I would recommend them. In an acute attack reading on my tablet triggers an immediate vertigo. Mine were 8$.”
Other comments made on the subject in Meniere’s Disease supports groups online were as follows (2020):
“Most of the time they work for me but I did have one experience where they added to the problem but I was off balance a bit more that week. They were fine after that day”
“Have blue for office and computer screen and yellow for my progressives. No issues at all.”
“Big difference for me personally!”
“Made a HUGE difference for my migraines.”
“I love mine! Been using them for years now. I also have the blue light filter set on all my tech that has it, and I have a chrome extension that allows me to adjust the light/dark of websites.”
“Therespecs… they’re a miracle worker for me. When I go into stores or offices I no longer get dizzy when I wear these.”
“Mine have helped”
“I use a blue light filter on my phone and it really helps me”
“They help take that pressure off my eyes and forehead so decrease the chances of a migraine.”
“I used to be an optical consultant for a UK wide opticians.
Blue light filters were and remain controversial, with many denouncing the benefits due to lack of science.
My personal experience is that they make unnatural lighting significantly more comfortable daily and reduce eye strain.”
“They’ve been great for me. I suggest getting looser fitting frames that you use only @ home for comfort.”
So, Can Blue Light Glasses Help Stop Vertigo?
To my knowledge there are no cited studies relating to vertigo or Meniere’s disease. However, there are studies indicating that blue glasses help computer vision syndrome (CVS), a condition resulting from focusing the eyes on a computer screen. Two of the listed symptoms of CVS are dizziness/vertigo and Migraine.
In addition to possibly preventing vertigo, blue light glasses are also beneficial for those who suffer from insomnia.
Help other Meniere’s sufferers. Do you use blue light blocking glasses or goggles? Do they help? Let us know in the comments section below or email Mike at meniereshelp@gmail.com
Can Lipo-Flavonoid Help reduce the Symptoms of dizziness, vertigo, tinnitus and hearing loss?
The Lipo-Flavonoid nutritional supplement was developed by a well know Otolaryngologist (Ear, Nose & Throat Doctor) at a leading clinic in the US mid-west more than forty years ago.
The supplement was specifically developed to relieve the symptoms of ringing in the ears (tinnitus), dizziness and loss of hearing in Meniere’s disease. Lipo-Flavonoid provides nutritional support to improve circulation in the inner ear.
Lipo-Flavonoid Plus is an Extra Strength formula containing twice the normal amount of Lemon Bioflavonoids compared to the regular Lipo-Flavonoid, and is claimed to be even more beneficial in reducing the symptoms of Meniere’s disease.
These are all natural nutrients; not synthetic drugs. Eriodicytol glycoside is an extract from citrus bioflavonoid and has been shown to aid in maintaining inner ear health and improving microcirculation in the ear.
Studies related to Lipo-Flavonoid & ingredients:
In a study of patients with Meniere’s syndrome, they were given Lipo-Flavonoid for several months. Most of the people noticed improvements and no adverse side affects. “They were so pleased with the improvements in their ear health that they voluntarily remained on Lipo-Flavonoid after the study was over.” (Goffin, 1970).
Hearing also improved when 160 people with Meniere’s Disease were given citrus bioflavonoid, ascorbic acid, and vitamin B in another study. Vitamin B complex may produce an occasional hearing improvement in a few isolated instances. However, supplementation with citrus bioflavonoid (600 mg, three times a day) can make the improvements more regular, and to a greater extent (Williams, 1962).
One scientific study looked at eriodictyol glycosidase in people with Meniere’s Disease. An overwhelming majority of the 122 people said it relieved their dizziness and the ringing in the ears. (Williams, 1964).
In another study, 1,220 people with hearing loss were given bioflavonoid complex along with a multiple vitamin. Forty percent of the people studied claimed that their hearing improved significantly. (Shaia, 1976).
In a fourth study, doctors found a relationship between vitamin B12 deficiency and tinnitus. Tinnitus patients improved when given vitamin B12 (Shemesh, 1993).
Another study looked at a combination of therapies including beta-histine mesilate, vitamin B complex and diazepam in patients with tinnitus. This study discovered this multi-ingredient treatment may provide relief. (Ohsaki, 1998).
Eriodictyol glycoside (lemon bioflavonoid extract) may act on histidine decarboxylase and play a major part in control of the microcirculation in the ear. Schayer had stated “All the observations seem to be unified by the hypothesis that inducible histidine decarboxylase is located in or close to, vascular endothelial cells and synthesizes histamine at a rate determined by the requirements of the issues for blood.” Williams et al wrote, “Histamine suddenly induced by a local stimulus in quantities far beyond homeostatic necessity would reproduce the symptoms, signs and pathologic [condition] of Meniere’s Syndrome. Eriodictyol glycoside may act as a blocking agent for histidine decarboxylase (histamine).” (Slattery, 1997)
According Herschberg (1974), these studies prove that supplements with a bioflavonoid complex can “really help to maintain inner ear health.“
What Lipo-Flavonoid users say
From 1134 customer reviews on Amazon at the time of writing, Lipo-Flavonoid Plus averages 4 out of 5 stars.
There are many very positive reviews, some with mixed results and there are some negative reviews.
From the positive reviews:
“I took 6 pills/day for the recommended time and noticed toward the end of my first bottle I had NO ringing on several, consecutive days! Convinced me to buy my second bottle FOR SURE. I’m now at 3/day and have none to minimal ringing each day, before taking had daily severe ringing for years-I’M A BELIEVER.”
“All the ingredients are specifically aimed at helping increase circulation to the ear. You have to follow the recommended dosages and do the exercises. Be patient and do not give up, this product will help!!!!”
“Only thing that has stopped the ringing!”
“I went to 3 ENT’s (Ears, Nose, Throat specialist) for persistent ringing in my left ear. I had 2 MRI’s done. They were not able to determine what the problem was other than a slight hearing loss at the very high end of the range, which I was assured was normal for a person of my age (45). The third ENT I consulted told me about this product. I tried it and the ringing stopped in only 3 days! It was so bad it was keeping me up at night. For me, this product has been a true miracle. I have not had any problems since. I began by taking the full dose. Now I only have to take 1 a day.”
“I’ve been using this product for 3 months now. I followed the recommendation of taking double the recommended amount to achieve faster results. After about 3 weeks the buzzing in my ear was cut in half. That by itself was a huge improvement. By the end of 2 months it reduced it a bit more. I’m now taking the recommend 3 pills a day and so far haven’t noticed any increase in the buzz volume. Actually there are times it seems to be totally gone. My ENT is the one that recommended it to me. He did advice however that it doesn’t work for everyone but is one of the few products out there that does work well for those it helps. I do know that I had my doubts that a vitamin supplement would help my ears but am so glad now that I gave it a try. If you are thinking of trying it, I do recommend you follow the suggestion of taking double the recommended dose for 2 months to get it working faster and hopefully you will be one of the ones that it really helps just like it has me. Best of luck to you and hope you find this review helpful.”
“If you have meniere’s disease, you must try this product”
“I have had classical meniere’s disease for many years, and have suffered dizziness, ear pressure, hearing loss, tinnitus and vomiting. Soon after taking my first dosage of Lipofavanoid, I started to notice a reduction in ear pressure. That was in August 2008. It is now August 2009 and I have been taking around 800mg a day, everyday since my first dosage. This product has been a big help, and has provided a way for me to make meniere’s manageable day to day. If you have classical meniere’s disease, you must at least try this product. It has been a big help to me and my family. Lipoflavanoid PLUS actually acts like an antihistamine in the inner ear, and reduces fluid production (swelling) and makes the membranes of the inner ear more porous so fluids flow easier and pressure is reduced. Lipoflavanoid also improves blood circulation by dilating the tiny capillaries of the inner ear, improving overall inner ear health and function. Improved circulation of the inner ear can also reduce tinnitus by allowing the hair cells of the cochlea to send higher quality signals to the brain. NOTE; make sure you get Lipoflavanoid “PLUS“. This version of the product includes a higher level of lemon bioflavanoids which is the key ingredient that can potentially improve the meniere’s ear.
Good luck!”
“My ear doctor recommended this for ringing in the ear. My doctor said to just take one a day and I have been using Lipo-Flavonoid for over two years now and have had a reduction in the ringing that makes if tolerable now. I would recommend this to anyone who has tinnitus.”
From negative reviews:
“Didn’t help the ringing in my ears”
“Hubby took it for 60 days. No improvement noted. Wishing there was something that works for him.”
“Gave absolutely no help”
What are Flavonoids?
Flavonoids are a group of plant metabolites thought to provide health benefits through cell signaling pathways and antioxidant effects. These molecules are found in a variety of fruits and vegetables.
Flavonoids can be powerful antioxidants, in addition to having anti-viral/bacterial, anti-cancer, anti-inflammatory and anti-allergy properties.
Green tea, citrus fruit, and berries are great sources of flavonoids. Lemon bioflavonoid and grape seed may be among the most beneficial sources for Meniere’s sufferers, improving microcirculation of blood in and around the ear.
The University of Maryland reports: Certain flavonoids, known as hydroxyethylrutosides (HR), have been reported to improve symptoms of MD in one double-blind study. In this study, 2 grams per day of HR for three months resulted in either stabilization of or improvement in hearing.
Meniere’s Help readers experiences with Lipo-flavonoid
Extracts from emails to Meniere’s Help (used with permission):
“I’ve been on the low salt diet, diuretic and taking the vitamins. I recently started taking LipoFlavonoid Plus and it has done wonders. I haven’t had an attack in 8 weeks, the fullness is gone.
Jo”
“I have been taking the expensive “pure” supplements, I also have been taking that LipoFlavanoid Plus. The good news is that I haven’t had a really horrific episode like I did back in September and I am most often able to function pretty normally and work full-time.”
Anne
Conclusion
It would appear that Lipoflavonoid does help at least some people with Meniere’s symptoms. From the information above it would seem over 50%. The vast majority of sufferers who have experience with the supplement regimen spoken of on Meniere’s Help have been able to reduce or eliminate their symptoms.
Dr Strand later added three recommendations to the original regimen. One of these was Lipo-Flavonoid. The two most common symptoms that are reported to be hardest to eliminate is tinnitus and hearing loss. Vertigo and dizziness and the other associated symptoms are nearly always the first things to reduce or disappear.
Adding LipoFlavonoid Plus may be the final piece in the puzzle to help with hearing loss and tinnitus.
Are there links between fungal infections, candida and Meniere’s Disease?
There are plenty of accounts from Meniere’s sufferers who also suffer from candida and some accounts that suggest dealing with candida was followed by reduced or eliminated Meniere’s symptoms.
There are very few if any clinical studies linking candida or fungal infections ‘directly’ to Meniere’s Disease, but plenty linking them to vertigo, tinnitus, labyrinthitis and the ear. Given that “Meniere’s” is simply a label given to a set of perceived to be idiopathic symptoms, these studies must be important.
Dig slightly deeper and links can be found to other conditions that are themselves related to Meniere’s and possible root causes. These links may suggest that candida is either a root cause or at least an associated cause in some people.
What is candida albicans and how might it be linked to Meniere’s?
Candida albicans is a yeast that can be found in everyone. Good bacteria in the body such as lactobacillus, acidophilus and bifidus usually keeps candida in check and stops any overgrowth. However if the immune system is compromised and body systems are thrown out of balance the yeast can proliferate and transform into pathogenic fungus that can further compromise the immune system and trigger a variety of symptoms and illnesses. The body also becomes more prone to allergies and infections as a result of this overgrowth.
Some possible causes of candida albican overgrowth (Candidiasis) are:
Prolonged use of anti-biotics
Oral contraceptives, estrogen-replacement and or steroid use (yeast festers in estrogen)
Anti-ulcer medication
Immune suppression from stress, environmental toxins, illness and infections
The emboldened and hyperlinked causes above have all been linked to Meniere’s disease. Given the overall need for strengthening your immune system to combat Meniere’s, the vicious cycle of immune suppression leading to fungal infection then fungal infection leading to more immune suppression alone is an obvious link in the many possible causes for Meniere’s in some people.
Finding your individual root cause for Meniere’s can seem daunting especially when there can be so many contributing triggers and causes all compounding your symptoms. For example: amalgam fillings leaking mercury can affect thyroid function, immune system, candida and is a known cause of Meniere’s symptoms. Hypothyroidism has been linked to Meniere’s, immune suppression and candida albicans overgrowth. Candida may be linked to Meniere’s. (See our readers messages below)
So if you are a Meniere’s sufferer and find you have hypothyroidism or candida albicans you may treat those individually and think it is enough. If you have one or more of these conditions but have missed the fact you have amalgam fillings then it is likely you will always be treating the symptoms and never addressing the cause.
By removing the amalgam from your body and detoxing the mercury from your system, strengthening your immune system through diet/supplements, re-balancing your thyroid/adrenal/endocrine system and treating the fungal infection, again a through nutrient application, then you should have covered all bases and dealt with the root cause(s) of your Meniere’s. (based on the hypothetical scenario above)
Stress is a known trigger and considered by some as a root cause of Meniere’s. We see above that stress can cause candida albicans, it can also result in thyroid dysfunction. So again we see a possible root cause that can lead either directly to Meniere’s through irregularities in blood flow and/or cause other conditions that may ultimately lead to Meniere’s somewhere down the line.
When you are told or you read the cause of Meniere’s disease is unknown and there is no known cure, this is very deceptive. The fact that your Meniere’s symptoms are “idiopathic”, by very definition means that if you find your cause [one of the above for example] your condition is no longer considered to be ‘Meniere’s’.
When you see the word ‘Meniere’s’ for what it is, a label for a set of symptoms, then finding and dealing with your root causes becomes a much less daunting task. By first changing your perception of the condition, then joining the dots regarding the causes and triggers it is possible to, not only eliminate Meniere’s from our life, but come out the other end with an even healthier immune system and more energy than before your symptoms started.
According to research done in Australia in 1996 Candida albicans is an important opportunistic pathogen that has been associated with disease of the inner ear.
What are the experiences of our readers?
Below are some extracts from emails sent to us ( used with permission )
Hi Michael, Sorry for the delay in replying to you. I am doing much better these days. Someone told me about a doctor in Belfast who no longer worked for the NHS as he took a more alternative therapy view on health, a more holistic approach. He diagnosed my problem as candida overgrowth. For this he put me on supplements to deal with the bacteria overgrowth and a strict diet (no yeast, no dairy, no sugar). He also had me attend a chiropractor as he felt my neck had a lot of tension in it which could be triggering some of my dizziness/vertigo. Since I have been on this diet & the supplementsand finished course of chiropractor treatment i am feeling much better, more energy, no vertigo in 2 months, sleeping better….just feeling like my old self again!
Joanne
Hey Michael,
I’m doing pretty good. I’m taking more of the grape seed extract to stop dizziness. And thankfully it does help me. I have cut salt out of diet even with prepared foods. Sodium is so my enemy. I fasted for 3 days recently and had no dizziness at all. So I know it is food. I continue to be careful. God I miss potato chips.
I recently realized that I may be harboring candidayeast in my body–saliva test positive……. Yes, of course you may use anything that I send you. Edit it as you see fit. As I definitely am telling you my experiences as honestly as possible, maybe my words will encourage someone to try this path. I also should tell you that I work out with a Nazi trainer…no, really!! I move a lot in the class. I try very hard to not trigger menieres in the workout and as a precaution, I take two extra grape seed extract.
If I did not take the grape seed extract, I would not be able to workout and would definitely have attacks that I could not control.
Thanks very much for asking after me. I do appreciate your emails.
Thanks,
Dodie
Hello Mike, You’re right! Sorry about that. Hope you are well too. I’m currently on a candida diet and I’m still ok without attacks!
Hello Mike,
First, thank you for your terrific book! You have done incredible research and provide a wonderful guide. We are quite knowledgeable re Meniere’s from Jeff’s experience with this wretched disease diagnosed in 1997. Jeff was completely disabled from 1996-2001 when he was able to return to work and international travel due to correct treatment by a great New York doctor, Dr. Harold Levinson. We need to determine what blood work and other tests to try to do. Especially for herpes, bacterial, respiratory and other infections, virus, fungal infection, candida, food allergies
We are so enthusiastic re your work and grateful for your help and the terrific book!
Your friends, Candice & Jeff
Hi Mike,
Thank you so much for your continued support and yes you were absolutely right. It turns out I have candida. I am staying away from dairy, sugary food and no yeast. I take a probiotic and Vitamin b12 supplement. After being sick so for sooooo long it is wonderful to feel so healthy and energetic again. I promise I will keep you updated and yes please use my mails for your blog. People should know about this.
Thanks again
Denise
There are very few effective drugs for candida and the fungus can easily become drug resistant. Balancing your gut flora is essential and a healthy gut goes a very long way in a healthy body.
What can help eliminate candida overgrowth?
Probiotic foods such as natural yogurt, yakult and a quality probiotic supplement will help build your good gut bacteria which in turn will keep candida in check. Good bacteria lactobacillus, acidophilus and bifidus manufacture the B vitamins, biotin and B12 that helps control yeast.
B vitamins are essential particularly for a healthy gut. Consider strengthening your gut balance with a quality B12 supplement. B12 can not be found in plants. It can only be created in the gut. Meat contains B12 as it has been manufactured in animal guts which is why vegetarians are sometimes at risk of deficiency.
According to a study at Hindustan University of arts and Science, “Vitamin B12 was effective against Candida albicans“
According to Dr Laurant Bannock who authored the much coveted ( and highly expensive) book ‘The Clinical Nutrition Desk Reference’, Nutrient applications for candida albicans include: Supplement support to increase immune function, detoxification, adrenal support, essential fatty acids support and grapefruit seed extract – acts as an anti fungal and natural antibiotic.
He recommends:
Increase immune and digestive function, especially liver
Avoid sugar in all forms including fruit juices, fruit, dairy, products, honey, sucrose, dextrose, fructose, and possibly potatoes
Avoid alcohol, fermented and yeasty foods
Avoid food allergies/sensitivities
Eat sugar free yogurt, whole grains and organic meats
Avoid anti biotics
Follow candida diet ( a rotation may be helpful if allergies are present)
Avoid moldy places, chemical household products and chlorinated water
Avoid birth control pills
Promote healthy intestinal flora and increase fiber to eliminate toxins in the gut
Dr Edward Group of the Global Healing Center in Texas explains:
“With more and more of these organisms developing drug resistance, researchers are often looking for alternative remedies. A recent study looking at lavender oil may be just what any nature-loving herbalist needs for supporting immune health and possibly fighting candida. But while the essential oil shows good resistance to fungus, more research is needed to explore all its benefits. Some reports suggest colloidal silver could be helpful against candida. Now, while you might have heard taking garlic can help, recent research suggests that it’s actually not as beneficial against yeast as originally thought. That being said, I highly suggest using garlic every day.
Candida overgrowth could also lead to a condition commonly called leaky gut, something that can lead to food sensitivities and intolerances, among other things. If you suspect you have candida or have been diagnosed, you need to take immediate action.”
Several studies cited on pubmed suggest supplementing with Vitamin B12 can improve both tinnitus and sensorineural hearing loss. The most recent ” Therapeutic role of Vitamin B12 in patients of chronic tinnitus” was published in 2016 (https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4918681/)
The anti-vertigo treatment DiVertigo contains both Vit B12 an Vit B6. B12 is also part of the B complex used in Lipoflavonoid Plus
What is Beta-Glucanase?
Beta-glucans are health-promoting in that they act as intestinal fiber. People suffering from an overgrowth of the candida fungus may benefit from taking beta-glucanase. Candida is notoriously difficult to eliminate because of its inherent ability to resist antimicrobial agents. Sadly, many people treat digestive problems and infections with prolonged and high-dose antibiotics which can be totally counterproductive.
Beta-glucanase is an enzyme that has been found to be particularly useful in reducing the coating or biofilm of Candida..
A great number of studies on enzymes have been conducted in Europe and Russia on human participants. The great majority suggests that a broad-spectrum enzyme preparation containing beta-glucanse can improve overall digestion and reduce a large amount of negative gastrointestinal issues.
Conclusion
Judging by the accounts of some sufferers, controlling your candida overgrowth and rebuilding your immune system may be all it takes to live free of Meniere’s symptoms but more than likely in most cases it may also take other positive proactive measures depending what other issues are present in the individual.
Each individual case may have varying pathology and root causes for Meniere’s. It is a case of gaining knowledge, knowing your own body and taking the appropriate action needed. If you are waiting for a ‘definitive’ root cause to be found and a wonder drug to appear you will be disappointed. Understanding what you are dealing with and taking the appropriate action in your own individual case, as we repeat ad nauseum throughout the Meniere’s Help website and blog can free you from Meniere’s. It can be done, it has been done by multiple thousands (just that we know of) and is being done all the time.
To restore overall gut health consider eliminating fungal causing foods, eating foods that promote good gut bacteria (see above) and supplementing with a quality probiotic and Vitamin B12 .
Sources: Menieres-Help.Com, The Global Healing Center, The Clinical Nutrition Desk Reference, University of Hindustan, PubMed, Noise & Health International Journal.
Help other Meniere’s sufferers. What are your experiences with candida albicans, fungal infections and Meniere’s. Tell us all about it in the comments boxes below or email Mike at meniereshelp@gmail.com
