Meniere's Disease Help

The Problem with Supplements for Meniere’s disease

Why some supplements may help you reduce your symptoms, while others may harm you

If you have ever searched for supplements to help reduce your Meniere’s symptoms, or for any other reason, you may have read the term ” Not all supplements are created equal”.

In recent years the focus of Menieres-Help.Com has been very much on identifying the root causes of Meniere’s symptoms and eliminating those causes and hopefully the symptoms from the sufferers life

We have always concentrated on triggers but in the formative years of this site being active we spread the word as much as we could about the concept of the right nutrition enabling sufferers to live free from symptoms and live a healthy normal life. This involves possible changes in diet, lifestyle and supplementing with quality nutriceuticals.

We have always put large emphasis on the word “quality” for good reason. Over a decade ago when we first started spreading the word about the supplements we use there was a lot substandard supplement products on the shelves of so called health food stores, supermarkets, high street pharmacies and spread all over the internet. You have to say it has gotten worse these days.

The US market is being flooded with supplements made in China that may have, shall we say, some ‘dubious’ ingredients.

That is not say China is any worse than the US, UK or other western countries. In fact there has always been a proliferation of these products that belong in the garbage can rather than in our stomachs. It is just now its even worse.

Moreover there are now reports of illegal copies of quality brands being shipped in from China and being sold online.

There are some fantastic products and brands out there but there are a whole lot more that are, ‘questionable’ to say the very least.

Way back in 2004 I checked the index chart results of independent quality testing for over a thousand products in the US, UK and Canada. In an index score of 300, most high street brands scores were pitifully low. One of the most popular brands in the UK at the time scored just 15 (out of 300!!)  Another brand that most people would trust from the name alone scored a pitiful 5!!

The supplements we have been using with such success for over a decade scored the maximum 300. If you think about this, it make perfect sense why the results people get when using supplementation is so varied. In terms of controlling Meniere’s symptoms, some see no improvement at all, some see partial improvement while others live completely free of their symptoms. It simply depends on what you use and the quality of what you use. Indeed, all supplements are NOT created equal.

The tests mentioned above were done by ‘Nutrisearch’ and published in their Comparative Guide Nutritional Supplements. The most recent edition was published in 2017: NutriSearch Comparative Guide to Nutritional Supplements for the Americas (English).  Not only do they publish their results but also give a thorough explanation of the importance of diet and nutrition to health and explain the relationship of oxidative stress and inflammation with the onset of disease and how what you eat and supplement with can prevent this.

For the 2015 edition their summary is as follows:

“The central roles of oxidative stress and inflammation in the onset of chronic degenerative disease are explained. The preventive roles of dietary antioxidants are discussed. The fundamental question of why we need to supplement is answered. The importance of supplementation with two ancient antioxidants, vitamin D and iodine, is highlighted.”

Why not all supplements are created equal

According to Dr Edward Group of the Global Healing Center in Texas,

“What people are not aware of is all vitamins are not created equal, and most are actually synthetic.“

He goes on to say,

“A healthy, organic diet should provide a good amount of nutrients that the body needs, but supplements can help ensure that we are getting a healthy serving of specific vitamins.

The problem is that many vitamin and mineral supplements are manufactured synthetically with chemicals and do not come straight from their natural sources. They are made to mimic the way natural vitamins act in our bodies. Natural vitamins are derived directly from plant material containing the vitamin, not produced in a test tube.

Many synthetic vitamins lack the transporters and co-factors associated with naturally occurring vitamins because they have been “isolated.” The Organic Consumers Association emphasizes that isolated vitamins cannot be used or recognized by the body in the same way as the natural version.

The natural form come in packages with other vitamins, enzymes and minerals that control the way the body recognizes, metabolizes and uses them to make what it needs.

Isolated vitamins can’t always be used by the body, and are either stored until you obtain or create the nutrients required to use them effectively or are excreted. Synthetic vitamins are also devoid of necessary trace minerals and must use the body’s own mineral reserves which may lead to dangerous mineral deficiencies.”

It is believed that today more than 95% of all the vitamin supplements sold are synthetic. When genuine quality supplements can do so much good, this proliferation both gives the concept of supplementation a bad name and puts many people off the idea due to poor results and bad press.

Synthetic vitamins contain chemical compounds that were not meant for human consumption and do not occur in nature.

Dr Group says,

“Fat soluble vitamins in their synthetic form are especially dangerous because they can build up in your fatty tissues and cause toxicity. The reason that the synthetic form is more dangerous is because you get a high, concentrated serving of the vitamin rather than the amount that you would get from a food-based form.”

• Vitamins A, D, E and K are all fat soluble
• Fat soluble vitamins are found naturally in butter, fish oils, nuts, and green leafy vegetables
• Excesses of fat soluble vitamins are stored in the liver and fatty tissues
• Most people do not get sufficient amounts of fat soluble vitamins from their diet

Supplement manufacturing does not come under the same strict regulations as pharmaceuticals so there is a lot of room to fool the consumer with misleading labels and ingredient lists.

The label may state “natural” but in fact this is often not the case. The vitamins only have to be 10% natural for the manufacturer to able to label their product “natural”, meaning 90% of what you are consuming may be actually synthetic!

Dr Group insists that most Vitamin C and B Vitamin supplements are synthetic.

Organic Consumers Association – Natural Vs Synthetic vitamins

The Organic Consumers Association published an ingredient chart to help consumers identify natural vs. synthetic vitamins. Check the labels when you buy and avoid these synthetic versions.

• Vitamin A: Retinyl Palmitate
• Vitamin B1 (Thiamine): Thiamine Mononitrate, Thiamine Hydrochloride
• Vitamin B2 (Riboflavin): Riboflavin
• Pantothenic Acid: Calcium D-Pantothenate
• Vitamin B6 (Pyridoxine): Pyridoxine Hydrochloride
• Vitamin B12: Cyanocobalamin
• PABA (Para-aminobenzoic Acid): Aminobenzoic Acid
• Folic Acid: Pteroylglutamic Acid
• Choline: Choline Chloride, Choline Bitartrate
• Biotin: d-Biotin
• Vitamin C (Ascorbic Acid): Ascorbic Acid
• Vitamin D: Irradiated Ergosteral, Calciferol
• Vitamin E: dl-alpha tocopherol, dl-alpha tocopherol acetate or succinate

Note that the “dl” form of any vitamin is synthetic.

When you wonder about the huge disparity in the prices of some supplements.  Supplements with all natural ingredients are produced by manufacturers who take great care in the process in which they extract nutrients and put the the supplements together. A few of the best companies choose to be regulated to pharmaceutical standards to ensure consumer confidence in the safety, potency and quality of their supplements.

Cheaper brands often have either useless or harmful fillers and binders in them. The consumer believes they are supporting or boosting their immune system and general health but in fact may be consuming toxic materials instead.

Avoid supplements with these toxic ingredients:

• Magnesium stearate (or stearic acid)
• Monosodium Glutamate (MSG) disguised as “natural flavors”
• Carnauba wax is used in car wax and shoe polish
• Titanium dioxide is a carcinogen

On the one hand this information makes you realize why some people do not trust supplements and on the other makes me wonder how many people have tried cheap substandard brands and either gotten more sick or had no benefit whatsoever.

In both cases people have lost the opportunity to truly support their immune system adequately to enable it to deal with the inflammation causing their symptoms. They will have wasted time and money and ended up dismissing the very notion that nutrition actually matters so much. More importantly they will have continued to suffer needlessly.

I find this very frustrating and sad.

At the end of the day, although there are other important aspect to reducing your symptoms,  the quality of supplements you might use, not only matters but can be vital in managing your Meniere’s symptoms and your general health.

If you found this article useful Click here to support Meniere’s Help paypal.me/menieres

Meniere’s Success Stories

Overcoming Meniere’s Disease

By Mike Spencer
Founder of Meniere’s Help – Supporting sufferers since 2004
Researcher and author of Managing Meniere’s Disease
and The Need for Balance – Dealing with Causes of Meniere’s

Help other Meniere’s sufferers

What is your experience with supplementation and Meniere’s – good or bad? Tell us all about it in the comments box below or email Mike at meniereshelp@gmail.com

References/Further reading:

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32189314/

Super Foods for Meniere’s Disease

Can nutrient packed super foods help reduce the symptoms of Meniere’s?

If you have spent much time on our main website Menieres-Help.Com you will know that a big part of managing your symptoms and living a normal life with Meniere’s is about diet.

What you eat, do not eat can have a huge effect, both positively an negatively.  Supporting your immune system with the right quality dietary supplements and eating the right foods can often mean a reduction or even elimination of your symptoms.

This is not a cure, nor is it a treatment but rather you supplying enough of the right nutrients to your immune system, making it strong enough and balanced so as to deal with the inflammation within your ear (and elsewhere) and promoting healthy blood flow to the ear.

Dietary supplements work best in synergy with a healthy balanced (organic where possible) whole food diet.

A specific regimen of quality supplements in the vast majority of cases has worked in allowing sufferers to live free of symptoms. This has been successful for over a decade.

That said, not all of us can manage to eat and live as our body requires to stay healthy.  We need that extra help cleansing our bodies of toxins, keeping our cellular environment healthy, producing good blood flow and strengthening our immune system enough to fight the unusual amount of inflammation that may be occurring to create Meniere’s  symptoms.

In addition to this our endocrine system needs to be kept balanced so as not cause any dysfunctions that may also ultimately lead to the manifestation of Meniere’s symptoms.

What is a ‘Super Food’ and how might it help you?

Super foods are exceptionally nutrient-rich foods considered to be even more beneficial for health than normal healthy foods.

Chlorella

Chlorella has worked for many people by detoxing and helping the body’s natural immune system suppress the symptoms of Meniere’s. It tackles the inflammation within the ear, promoting blood flow and preventing degenerative disease states developing within the cells by alkalizing them.

As stated above, dietary considerations including supplementation can allow many people to live a life free of most if not all the symptoms of MD. Sufferers live a normal healthy life with lots of energy. The worst they may experience is a slight tinnitus. If the tinnitus increases for any reason, increasing the amount of flavonoids you eat in food or supplement with can help reduce it again.

We have received plenty of emails from sufferers who have used Chlorella in conjunction with other supplements successfully to keep the symptoms at bay.

I myself used Chlorella while in Japan around 2001 with some notable success. It worked wonders for a while but wasn’t quiet enough on its own at that time when my condition was at its very worst.  What it did do was introduced me to the concept of nutrition and supplementation being able to help what I had previously been led to believe was a hopeless situation. Prior to that time I was completely ignorant and dismissive of the idea partly due to my treating doctors dismissing it as mere hearsay with no clinical proof.

According to ‘Japan Chlorella Treatment Association‘ they have received more than 1800 reports describing successful experiences with Chlorella and Eleuthero  (Siberian Ginseng) in gaining relief from MD.

NOTE: *** See bottom of page for details on Eleuthero, which also may be considered somewhat of a super food***

Chlorella is in fact the most widely used supplement in Japan full stop.  According to leading authority on nutrition, Dr Joseph Mercola, over 10 million Japanese supplement with it regularly.

Chlorella also detoxes the body of heavy metals. Its molecular structure, allows it to bond to metals, chemicals and some pesticides.

When Chlorella is taken into your body, its natural action will bind it to lingering heavy metals, chemicals and pesticides found in your digestive tract, which is your body’s pathway to your bloodstream where these harmful toxins are delivered and deposited into your cells.

This super food does not bind to the minerals your body naturally needs to function optimally like calcium, magnesium, or zinc.

Even NASA has studied using Chlorella as the one of first whole foods in space on the international space station!

Studies in Japan have shown Chlorella may help reduce body fat percentage, may be useful in fighting obesity and weight related diabetes. It may also help reduce both cholesterol and hypertension. Chlorella cleanses the bowel and other elimination channels, protects your liver and promotes clean blood.  Clean blood helps cleanse the body tissues of metabolic waste.

One reason it is such a powerful detoxifier is because it is rich in chlorophyll.

Chlorophyll packed Chlorella has a lot of useful properties that are important to Meniere’s sufferers:

1.  Helps you process more oxygen
2.  Helps purify your blood and clean away toxins
3.  Promotes optimal blood pressure
4.  Support elimination of molds in your body
5.  Boosts your immune system
6.  Enhances your ability to focus and concentrate
7.  Increases your energy levels
8.  Balances your body’s pH
9.  Normalizes your blood sugar and blood pressure

A three-year double-blind metal detoxification study with over 350 people participating was undertaken at a Russian metal foundry, where more than 20 natural compounds were used in trials to remove heavy metals from people who had been exposed at very high levels to four metals — antimony, lead, cadmium and arsenic.

‘Broken Cell Wall’ Chlorella combined with Cilantro eliminated ALL heavy metals, including mercury! With no reported side-effects!

One of the major possible causes of Meniere’s in some people is mercury laden amalgam fillings. Chlorella is said to be able to detox your body of heavy metals literally in weeks, which is incredibly powerful.

If your only root cause were leaky amalgam fillings (see link above), you had those fillings removed then followed this up with detoxing the mercury from your body using chlorella and cilantro in this case you could actually say that supplementation was indeed part of your ‘cure’.

How might chlorella help Meniere’s sufferers?

1. As stated above, by feeding your immune system adequate nutrients to keep it strong enough to deal with inflammation constantly
2. Promoting good blood flow in and around the ear and the body in general
3. Alkalizing the cells in your body to give them balanced pH levels therefore helping prevent degenerative disease states to develop
4. Boosting energy and mental clarity, preventing the extreme exhaustion and brain fog sufferers experience
5. Detoxing your body of potential harmful toxins, including heavy metals such as mercury

Spirulina

Spirulina and Chlorella are often compared to each other as they are both nutrient packed antioxidant filled algae.  They are also both good sources of essential amino acids/protein.

As with Chlorella, NASA has also proposed using this algae as space food.

Spirulina is incredibly well balanced with B vitamins, minerals, omega oils, micro nutrients and even ‘healthy’ carbohydrates. Some claim it may be the single most nutrient-dense food on earth.

And just like chlorella, it is claimed to be a heavy metal detoxifier.

How might Spirulina specifically help with Meniere’s sufferers?

1.  Packed with powerful anti oxidants and natural anti inflammatory properties. It also increases levels of antioxidant enzymes in the blood. Very important (see The Inflammatory Process)
2.  Balances cholesterol levels and reduces high blood pressure, promoting good blood flow. Promoting good blood flow is a common treatment for Meniere’s.
3.  Spirulina supplements have been shown to be very effective against allergic rhinitis. Sinus problems are a known trigger for Meniere’s sufferers. The number of email requests we get always spikes in the allergy seasons.

Moringa

The powerhouse Moringa Tree contains all the essential amino acids needed by the body. Amino acids are the building blocks of proteins which are needed to grow, repair and maintain cells. Healthy cells, healthy body, that simple.

Sometimes described as the “miracle tree,” its leaves are packed with an incredible amount of nutrition: protein, calcium, beta carotene, vitamin C, potassium… pretty much everything. It has been used as food and medicinally for at least 4,000 years.

Ayurvedic medicine associates moringa with the cure or prevention of about 300 diseases. Moringa seeds are said to work better for water purification than many of the conventional synthetic materials in use today.

Why is moringa a ‘powerhouse’ and referred to as a super food?      

1. It has 9 times more protein than yogurt
2. It has 10 times more vitamin A (beta carotene -pro vitamin A) than carrots
3. It has 15 times more potassium than bananas
4. It has 17 times more calcium than milk
5. It has 12 times more vitamin C than oranges
6. It has 25 times more iron than spinach

Moringa leaves are packed with antioxidants, including vitamin C, beta-carotene, quercetin, and chlorogenic acid. Chlorogenic acid, has been shown to slow cells’ absorption of sugar, preventing diabetes.

According to the ‘Asian Pacific Journal of Cancer Prevention’:

“The leaves of the Moringa oleifera tree have been reported to demonstrate antioxidant activity due to its high amount of polyphenols.

Moringa oleifera extracts of both mature and tender leaves exhibit strong antioxidant activity against free radicals, prevent oxidative damage to major biomolecules, and give significant protection against oxidative damage.”

In a study of women taking 1.5 teaspoons of moringa leaf powder daily for three months, blood levels of antioxidants increased significantly.

Anyone who has read about the supplement regimen we write about on Menieres-Help.Com will know how important antioxidants are in fighting oxidative stress and therefore inflammation.

Moringa can lower blood sugar levels. One study found women who took seven grams of moringa leaf powder daily for three months reduced their fasting blood sugar levels by 13.5 percent.

Separate research revealed that adding 50 grams of moringa leaves to a meal reduced the rise in blood sugar by 21 percent among diabetic patients.

It has powerful anti-inflammatory properties.  The isothiocyanates, flavonoids*, and phenolic acids in moringa leaves, pods, and seeds all have anti-inflammatory properties.

*Flavonoids are an important ingredient in all nutritionists recommendations for Meniere’s.

According to the Epoch Times:

“The tree’s strong anti-inflammatory action is traditionally used to treat stomach ulcers. Moringa oil (sometimes called Ben oil) has been shown to protect the liver from chronic inflammation. The oil is unique in that, unlike most vegetable oils, moringa resists rancidity”

Moringa balances cholesterol levels. One study found its effects were comparable to those of the cholesterol-lowering drug simvastatin.

As noted in the Journal of Ethnopharmacology:

“Moringa oleifera is used in Thai traditional medicine as cardiotonic. Recent studies demonstrated its hypocholesterolemic effect.… In hypercholesterol-fed rabbits, at 12 weeks of treatment, it significantly (P<0.05) lowered the cholesterol levels and reduced the atherosclerotic plaque formation to about 50 and 86%, respectively. These effects were at degrees comparable to those of simvastatin.… The results indicate that this plant possesses antioxidant, hypolipidaemic, and antiatherosclerotic activities, and has therapeutic potential for the prevention of cardiovascular diseases.”

The leaves and seeds of moringa may protect against some of the effects of arsenic toxicity, which is  important given that studies show that there is contamination in common staple foods, such as rice. Contamination of ground water by arsenic has also become a cause of global public health concern.

One study revealed that using moringa seed powder when arsenic is present could significantly protect from oxidative stress and reduce tissue arsenic concentration.

There is speculation that moringa’s ability to attach itself to harmful materials may also happen in the body, making moringa a potential detoxification ‘super food’

How might Moringa help Meniere’s sufferers?

1.  It is packed with anti-oxidants, strengthening the immune system
2.  Has anti-inflammatory properties to fight the inflammation inside the ear.
3.  Powerful detoxifier (e.g. leaked mercury from amalgam fillings)
4.  Helps keep the blood healthy and promotes good blood flow (common treatment aims with Meniere’s)
5.  Contains flavonoids and high levels of vitamin C (both used to reduce Meniere’s symptoms)
6. Has high amounts of potassium. (Potassium levels are depleted by some drugs used for Meniere’s. This can cause dizziness in itself.)

Beets

Beets (Beetroot) sales according to the UK newspaper The Daily Mail in 2014 were up 20% over the past four years. It seems people are catching on to the fact that this purple root vegetable, that my father ate all the time and I hated as a kid, is indeed a super food.

Beetroot is a good source of iron and folate (naturally occurring folic acid), nitrates, betaine, magnesium, manganese and other antioxidants (notably betacyanin).

As far back as 1940 a study showed people with Meniere’s disease experienced decreased symptoms after receiving 10 to 20 intravenous infusions of magnesium.

According the UK National Health website a 2013 study showed beetroot lowers blood pressure and a 2012 study showed it may increase blood flow to the brain.

Beets are especially rich in a micronutrient called betaine or trimethylglycine (TMG).  Betaines are helpful for the elimination of toxins and the reduction of the amino acid homocysteine, linked to improved heart health.  Betaine has been documented by the University of Maryland to help in the decrease of high homocysteine levels. High amounts of homocysteine can damage red blood vessels, causing strokes, blood clots atherosclerosis and heart disease.

One of the major benefits of beet juice is that it contains the antioxidant pigments called betalains mentioned above.  These are components that help to boost the immune system, but also act as anti-inflammatories, antifungals and detoxification aids.

The betalains in raw beet juice are one of the best blood purifiers.  Beet juice can greatly assist in the process of detoxification from harmful pollutants, heavy metals and chemicals in the air we breathe, the food we eat and the water we drink.

In my research for the book The Need for Balance I discovered the levels of toxins entering our bodies from all sources is, quite frankly, shocking! Is it any wonder cancer rates are up 1000’s % in some cases over the past 50 or 60 years? You don’t have to be a genius to figure out why.

It is sad and worrying to realize we live in a very toxic environment, we fill our bodies with toxic ‘food like’ substances from the processed food, snacks and candy shelves in the supermarket. Even food we believe is healthy fresh produce is often laden with toxic pesticides, herbicides, chemical fertilizers, defoliants and chemical industrial run off. And don’t get me started on junk food! The secret is in the name ‘junk’.

There has never been a more pressing need for clean, naturally balanced, nutrient rich organic food. What we get instead is morons in position of power being fed bad pseudo science and fabricated scaremongering (and a whole lot of money) to agree to GMO’s and highly toxic pesticides, but I digress.

Beets, and especially the juice from beets, also helps to detoxify the body via an increase in glutathione production.  Glutathione is a master molecule that binds with toxins and pollutants that enter the bloodstream and eliminates them through the bowels.

Beets also boost the immune system because they contain significant amounts of vitamin C.  In addition, they are particularly known for their high amounts of folic acid and are therefore recommended for pregnant women for proper spinal cord development of the baby.   Folic acid also helps to manufacture red blood cells.

The nutrient content in beets is impressive:

Betaine Vitamin A Vitamin C Vitamin K Calcium B Vitamins Iron Manganese Potassium Copper Magnesium

Choline Folic Acid Sulfur Silica Boron Phosphorus Fiber Nitrates Other Betalains Lutein Zeaxanthin

How might Beets (especially juiced) help Menieres Sufferers?

1. Helps with inflammation
2. Increases blood flow
3. Increases supply of oxygen to the brain and body
4. Strengthens the immune system
5. Purifies the blood and liver
6.  Reducing high homocysteine levels
7. Increases glutathione

All in all beetroot detoxes, fights inflammation and helps blood flow. All of these being of various levels of importance to the sufferer, depending on your root cause.

Green tea

What make Japanese Green tea a super food?

Japanese evidence suggests that more than three cups a day may ward off the recurrence of breast cancer. Studies have shown that people who drink five cups a day are 16 per cent less likely to develop heart disease.

The results of a Swiss study published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition suggest that an extract from green tea may help with weight loss by speeding up fat oxidation. Researchers found that men who were given a combination of caffeine and green tea extract burned more calories than those given only caffeine or a placebo.

After studies, it has been suggested that green tea protects against Alzheimer’s.

How might green tea (green tea extract) help Meniere’s sufferers?

1.  Contains bioflavonoids
2.  Contains antioxidants
3.  Is a natural diuretic
4.  Detoxes and cleanses

Wheatgrass

Wheatgrass is a nutrient packed superfood with detoxification properties . Like Chlorella, it is packed with Chlorophyll; in fact it is 70% Chlorophyll.

Chlorophyll is the molecule that gives plants their green color, and which helps them to photosynthesize (convert sunlight into chemical energy).

In humans, chlorophyll is a powerful blood cleaner and builder. It delivers a continuous energy transfusion into our bloodstream, increasing and replenishing our red blood cell count while increasing our hemoglobin levels so that our red blood cells can deliver us increased amounts of oxygen. Since destructive bacteria cannot exist in the presence of oxygen, eating more chlorophyll-rich foods like wheatgrass can help guard us from a host of serious diseases.

1. Contains Chlorophyll
2. Detoxes
3. Has multi-vitamin levels of nutrients.
4. Good source of potassium
5. Promotes gut health possibly aiding metabolism

Ashwagandha

Ashwagandha is what is termed as an ‘adaptogen’. Adaptogens have the ability to help the body cope with both external and internal stresses from toxins.

In India, ashwagandha is known as the “strength of the stallion” since it has traditionally been used to strengthen the immune system after illness. Sometimes referred to as ‘Indian ginseng’ it is reported to have the ability to enhance stamina and have extraordinary stress relieving properties.

The leaves, the root and the berry are all used.

In over 200 studies it was found to:

1. Improve thyroid function
2. Treat adrenal fatigue
3. Reduce anxiety and depression
4. Combat effects of stress
5. Increase stamina and endurance
6. Prevent and treat cancer
7. Reduce brain cell degeneration
8. Stabilize blood sugar
9. Lower cholesterol
10. Boost immune system

A pretty impressive list of benefits, some of which directly help with Meniere’s symptoms.

Ashwagandha’s biggest claim to fame as a superfood is probably its ability to balance hormones and therefore improving the health of the thyroid.

Adaptogenic herbs work with your body to bring you back into balance whether your levels are high or low, therefore it can help both over active and under active thyroids.

There are currently millions of people who struggle with thyroid problems (many of whom don’t even know it).  Ashwagandha is a very important food to consider for this problem.

Ashwagandha has also been proven effective in supporting adrenal function helping you overcome adrenal fatigue and chronic stress. Another (food) herb packed with anti-oxidants and anti-inflammatory properties.

Your adrenal glands are endocrine glands that are responsible for releasing hormones (cortisol and adrenaline) in response to stress on your body.

If  your adrenals are overtaxed due to an overabundance of emotional, physical and mental stress, it can lead to a condition known as adrenal fatigue. The adrenal gland is part of the endocrine system and disorders in either are linked to Meniere’s in some people.

Medical studies have shown that ashwagandha improves cortisol levels, improves insulin sensitivity and naturally balances hormones. A case study reported a case of a 57-year-old woman with non-classical adrenal hyperplasia. She was treated with ashwagandha for six months, and after her treatment she saw improvements in four adrenal hormone markers, including corticoosterone and 11-deoxycortisol, which decreased by 69 percent and 55 percent respectively — a major improvement!

*This hormonal improvement was also accompanied by a noticeable reduction in hair loss.*

Recent research has proven ashwagandha is more than a stress reliever, it also protects the brain from degeneration and improves symptoms of alzheimer’s, depression, and anxiety.

Recent research on Ashwagandha conducted at the ‘National Institute of Advanced Industrial Science and Technology’ in Japan found that the leaves of Ashwagandha can selectively inhibit cancer cells.

A study published in Phytotherapy Research explains:

“Several studies have revealed that natural antioxidants, such as vitamin E, vitamin C and beta-carotene, may help in scavenging free radicals generated during the initiation and progression of this [Alzheimer’s] disease.  But we found Ashwagandha afforded lipid peroxidation inhibitory effects more potent than commercial antioxidants.”

Researchers at the National Brain Research Center found that mice with Alzheimer’s were unable to retain what they learned, but after 20 days of supplementing with ashwagandha, this improved significantly.

Both thyroid problems and adrenal/endocrine problems have been linked to Meniere’s.

How might ashwagandha help Meniere’s sufferers?

1.  Improve thyroid and endocrine function
2.  Helps reduce anxiety, stress and depression
3.  Increases energy levels
4.  Boosts the immune system
5. Contains anti-oxidants
6. Contains anti-inflammatory properties

Turmeric

Finally, Turmeric has been accepted as one of the most beneficial spices on earth and certainly deserves its label as a ‘super food’. It contains powerful anti-oxidants and the benefits to health are too long numerous to mention in this article.

It wouldn’t be unfair to say cellular inflammation is at epidemic levels in today’s world of convenience foods and toxic overload coming from every direction.  It is the fundamental cause of degenerative disease in our society. Turmeric has been shown to reduce inflammation & oxidative stress as well as any food or herbal medicine ever studied.

Turmeric root is incredibly rich in curcuminoid polyphenol anti-oxidants that give it a classic yellow-orange color. The principal crucuminoid is curcumin which is responsible for much of the health benefits attributed to turmeric. The other 2 curcuminoids are desmethoxycurcumin and bis-desmethoxycurcumin.

It is the 4th highest anti-oxidant rich herb with an extraordinarily impressive ORAC score of 159,277. These anti-oxidants such as curcumin are very powerful modulators of oxidative stress.

Blood sugar imbalances and insulin resistant cell membranes are critical factors that promote inflammatory conditions in the body. Curcumin has been shown to stabilize blood sugar and reverse cellular insulin resistance by increasing the number of insulin receptors and improving the receptor binding capacity to insulin.

“Turmeric is one of the greatest, beneficial medicinal plants in the entire world, It’s also one of the most researched medicinal plants in history.”

 “Let’s say you take ibuprofen for pain, There is a cascade — a downward cascade of negative consequences. That cascade may include kidney failure, or increased risk for heart attack and stroke if you take too much. For other drugs, the risks and side effects differ. These things “aren’t what you asked for,  When you take turmeric for pain, however, you get this upward cascade of benefits you didn’t necessarily ask for, such as anti-inflammatory effects and antioxidants.”

1. Folates
2. Niacin
3. Pyridoxine
4. Riboflavin
5. Vitamin A
6. Vitamin C
7. Vitamin E
8. Vitamin K

As with ginkgo which is used for helping Meniere’s symptoms, if you are on blood thinners such as warfarin or aspirin you should consult a physician before supplementing with turmeric or eating large amounts. Turmeric has blood thinning properties already, which is one of many reasons why it so good for the heart and blood flow.

How might turmeric help Meniere’s sufferers?

1. Anti inflammatory properties
2. High levels of Anti oxidants
3. Strengthens the immune system
4. Can help reduce stress and depression
5. Promotes good blood flow
6. Reduces nerve inflammation and headaches

So there you have it. 7 of the most powerful super foods for you to consider adding to your diet that may help reduce your symptoms enough for you to enjoy a ‘normal’ life.

*** Footnote*** In the report mentioned above from Japan Chlorella Treatment Association that stated 1800 sufferers showed positive improvements , Chlorella was used in conjunction with Eleuthero.

Eleuthero contains powerful phytochemicals like sterols, coumarins, flavonoids, and polysaccharides. Each of these compounds have unique healing potential, and when combined, they increase oxygen availability at the cellular level, encouraging blood flow, immune response, and antioxidant effects that protect your DNA.

The benefits of Eleuthero include:

1. Improves immune system response (relevant to Meniere’s)
2. Antioxidant protection (relevant to Meniere’s/ fight inflammation)
3. Reduces irritation
4. Better memory and recall (relevant to Meniere’s/reduce brain fog)
5. Increases libido
6. Improves mental clarity (relevant to Meniere’s/reduce brain fog)
7. Better focus (relevant to Meniere’s/reduce brain fog)
8. Alertness (relevant to Meniere’s/reduce brain fog)
9. Strengthens bones
10. Reduces outbreaks in individuals infected with Herpes  (relevant to Meniere’s in some people)
11. Encourages more restful sleep (relevant to Meniere’s/good sleeping patterns needed

Summary

If I have learned one thing from my experience with Meniere’s, it is not to underestimate the importance of what you eat and don’t eat. Regardless of your root cause, supplying your body with the right nutrients can allow your immune system to take care of the inflammation that, unchecked, ultimately results in your symptoms

When you consider that people have had success with chlorella alone and we know how much the anioxidant packed supplement regimen we and multiple thousands have used for over a decade has helped so much, just adding a few of these superfoods to your diet, supplementing with them or juicing them can only be a good thing. Not to mention the many other health benefits mentioned above as a bonus.

So in conclusion, incorporating superfoods into your diet can only be a good thing. Alternatively, try organic juicing powders that contains all 8 of the above mentioned super foods plus more for easy quick source of powerful nutrition every morning.

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Related articles:

Magnesium Links to Meniere’s Disease

Vitamin C and Meniere’s Disease

Vitamin D and Meniere’s Disease

By Mike Spencer

Founder of Meniere’s Help – Supporting sufferers since 2004

Researcher and author of Managing Meniere’s Disease and The Need for Balance – Dealing with the Causes of Meniere’s

Meniere’s Disease and Thyroid Dysfunction

How Thyroid Dysfunction may affect Meniere’s disease and what to do about it

Thyroid dysfunction, Hyperthyroidism, Hypothyroidism and Thyroid autoimmunity have all been linked to Meniere’s Disease.

If you understand the importance of the immune system it makes complete sense for this to be the case in many people. It makes perfect sense when you consider the success so many people have had in ridding themselves of their symptoms over the past decade or so using quality dietary supplementation and/or change of diet.

When you starve disease states of toxins and antigens (the bad stuff) and feed the immune system all the nutrients it needs, and the body needs in general (the good stuff) then balance returns to hormonal systems and the immune response is strong enough to deal with inflammation, toxins and antigens.

Yet despite the numerous clinical studies and papers written giving evidence to this fact the link to Meniere’s disease remains relatively ignored.

Do you have Meniere’s disease and thyroid dysfunction?

Have you been tested?

It seems some within the medical community are unable to join the dots or seem unwilling to look at any possibility beyond their specific field of medicine. “Take the drugs, and learn to live with it, there is nothing more to be done” seems the mantra of far too many treating ENT doctors or general physicians. If you are a Meniere’s sufferer I am sure there is a very good chance you either have been or will  be faced with this demoralizing attitude at some point.

Learn to live with it? I have never known anyone who could possibly just learn to live with Meniere’s disease. I have known thousands who decided to learn without it, took action themselves and now live symptom free.

In our modern society, culture and in this case to be more specific the medical community, ‘compartmentalization’ often means one department has no clue what another department is doing. We have our specific role in our jobs and do not know what is happening in the office behind us, let alone in the organization we belong to as whole. This creates an inability to see the bigger picture, join the dots and an inability to come to any other conclusion except what we are ‘told’ to think by perceived authority.

Stick a white coat on somebody to make them look like a scientist or doctor and the general public will literally do anything they are told. This blind faith in perceived authority has actually been tested by psychologists with some shocking results on how far people will go against their own better judgement.

In all professions, some are great at what they do, while others are not. The medical profession is no different. We are all human after all.

During my research for the book The Need for Balance I had a conversation with a doctor in Japan who worked in immunology.  I asked her what she believed to be the most important aspect of the immune system. After pausing and looking a little uncomfortable she answered, “probably hemoglobin or bone marrow”. No surprise there, both are of course vital to the immune system.

When I asked her how important the Thyroid gland was and how was it connected to the immune system, she looked a bit surprised and told me the Thyroid is not connected to the immune system, it regulates hormones.

I suggested that surely the thyroid is connected, as everything is connected inside the body and a problem in one area can have a knock on effect and cause dysfunction elsewhere. People with thyroid dysfunctions have weakened immune systems.

So if the immune system were weak then the Thyroid could be affected and result in hormonal imbalances and that would in turn result in illness. The Thyroid regulates the Thymus and the thymus is responsible for T-Cells (white blood cells vital for immune protection) so the Thyroid must be important.

Alternatively if the body’s metabolism was out of sync then vital nutrients might not be getting to where they should, including the Thyroid. Either way, it has direct links to the immune system whether it be in a causal or effected manner. (read about the relevance of T-cells to Meniere;s here)

She tacitly agreed and said she would have to study the Thyroid more.

Her specific area of expertise was hematology  and was unable to join immune system and thyroid function. Unable to join the dots as a result of focusing all her time on blood work within her compartmentalized field of expertise.

According to PubMed.Com the US official government medical website, in a paper from 2006 titled, ‘The immune system as a regulator of thyroid hormone activity.’ It states, “thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) can be produced by many types of extra-pituitary cells–including T cells, B cells, splenic dendritic cells, bone marrow hematopoietic cells, intestinal epithelial cells, and lymphocytes”

It also states that “functional significance of those TSH pathways historically has been largely ignored“

It goes on to state, “There is now, however, evidence linking cells of the immune system to the regulation of thyroid hormone activity ” and “the immune system may act to modulate neuroendocrine function during times of host stress”

It may be that the Thyroid is an under appreciated part of the puzzle in many illnesses and the number of people not diagnosed correctly as a result might be very large indeed.  The Thyroid is part of the endocrine system and among many other things secretes hormones that regulate metabolism.  Sometimes referred to as the “master gland or the ” heart” of the endocrine system.

As one of the largest endocrine glands, it manages important body processes, including protein creation, energy levels, regulation of body temperature, heart rate and blood pressure and secretes hormones that regulate metabolism.

The thyroid gland is located in the lower neck and secretes hormones into the blood, which are then carried into the body’s tissues. The thyroid gland mainly produces a hormone called thyroxine (T4), which is then converted by each of the body’s organs to the active form triiodothyronine (T3).  These hormones are vital for regulating all of the above mentioned functions in the body.

Blood flow, metabolism and endocrine have been linked in studies to Meniere’s.  Whatever is going on in the endolymphatic sac in the ear that is causing Meniere’s symptoms may be, at least in some cases, the end result in a line of different dysfunctions through the endocrine system and thyroid.

To emphasize how the knock on effect can be relevant, consider that Pituitary dysfunction can mean the pituitary gland cannot send a message to the thyroid gland to produce more thyroid hormone when needed. Everything is connected and the need for balance in all areas is important.

A 2008 clinical study published on NIH ‘Possible association between thyroid autoimmunity and Menière’s disease’

It stated, “Overall, our data demonstrate a significant association between MD and thyroid autoimmunity, which suggests that an autoimmune factor is involved in the aetiopathogenesis of this disease.  38% of the MD patients had significant autoantibody levels.

Furthermore, 14% of the MD patients were hyperthyroid. In conclusion, our data show a significant association between thyroid autoimmunity and MD, confirming the possible immune pathogenesis of the latter disorder”

‘Prevalence of Thyroid Dysfunction in Patients With Meniere’s Disease’

The Journal of American Medical Association (JAMA) reported in 2004 on this clinical study that concluded,

“Ménière’s disease is associated with corrected hypothyroidism.“

Along the same lines, a 2014 study published on Medscape.com concluded that their findings suggests that circulating antithyroid autoantibodies may represent a risk factor for developing vestibular dysfunction.

It would seem clear that for at least some people there is a connection with Thyroid dysfunctions and Meniere’s Disease symptoms.

How to keep your Thyroid healthy through dietary considerations

Considering the possibility that your Meniere’s disease symptoms may be a result of endocrine and thyroid dysfunctions, it makes sense to keep your thyroid and immune system healthy and balanced.

Environmental and dietary toxins can be a major reason for Thyroid dysfunction. Toxins are present in our environment, and there’s not much we can do to eliminate all of them in the short term. They are here and we have to deal with it. We can, limit our exposure to toxic compounds, reducing the likelihood of experiencing issues with our thyroid.

The worst toxins for thyroid health

1. Fluoride Almost 70 percent of the U.S. water supply is fluoridated to help prevent cavities.  However, what very few people know according to Journal of Clinical Endocrinology is that fluoride was actually prescribed as a remedy for an overactive thyroid during the first half of the 20th century. According to some reports, 2 to 5 mg of fluoride per day over a period of months was all it took to lower thyroid function; that’s about the same amount people drinking fluoridated water are exposed to daily. This would explain a LOT wouldn’t it?  A 2015 study published in the Journal of Epidemiology and Community Health in the UK concluded that locations with fluoridated water were 30 percent more likely to have high levels of hypothyroidism.
2. PFCs The Journal of Clinical Endocrinology and Metabolism reports that a higher level of perfluorinated chemicals (PFCs) in the blood could affect thyroid function in women.  PFCs  are used in the manufacturing of lots of common things, from your mattress to fast food containers! Even though the use of the chemicals is being phased out in the U.S., imported products could still be a concern.
3. Pesticide Thanks to ‘big Agra’ (no names mentioned) India has seen a rise in thyroid disorders , but there are measures in place to make sure much of the population has sufficient access to iodine, something essential for thyroid function. One recent study reported in the Times of India suggested this spike is due to pesticide and other chemical exposure, with experts noting almost 60 percent of cases aren’t connected to iodine-deficiency.  While the idea of pesticide exposure and thyroid problems is nothing new, maintaining iodine levels and avoiding pesticides could be the perfect combination according to The American Journal of Epidemiology.
4. Perchlorate According to studies published in Pharmacology Review.. Any number of nasty toxins could be the cause of an unhealthy thyroid, perchlorate is a strong candidate. But while there are numerous studies linking it with thyroid problems, the FDA still approved it for use as an anti-static agent in food packaging, making avoiding it a lot more difficult.
5. Bromine Studies in the Journal of Clinical Pathology confirm that Bromine is an endocrine disruptor and toxic to the thyroid, but you will find it in everything from pool cleaner to pasta, . Often, even healthy patients can have high levels of the flame-retardant substance in their bodies. Polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs) are even finding their way into the breast milk of American women according to a study published in Environmental Health Perspectives. One common source of bromine is brominated vegetable oil—which is still found in many drinks—so it would be wise to check labels.
6. BPA BPA is an endocrine disruptor and can affect hormone levels and thyroid balance. There are many studies documenting BPA’s effects on the thyroid in adults and children.     One study published in Environmental Health Perspectives looked at newborn babies and their mothers. The study suggested higher levels of BPA cause a decrease in thyroid function in women. All of the baby boys, though, had an increase in thyroid function causing problems from the higher levels of BPA.

While your family history can also play a role in endocrine problems, avoiding toxic exposure would appear to be a very wise move.

Looking after your thyroid and preventing thyroid conditions

Treat the Underlying Causes

Identify and treat the underlying causes of hypothyroidism, like food allergies, heavy metals, nutritional deficiencies, and stress. Eliminate the foods that cause you digestive distress, most commonly gluten and dairy.

Nutrition

The thyroid needs very specific nutrients to maintain proper function. First and foremost is iodine. Selenium, iron and zinc have also been recognized as important elements for thyroid function.

Try eating these foods to support your thyroid:

1. Seaweeds Dulse seaweed, arame, kombu, nori, sea palm and wakame are all quality iodine and nutrient sources.  Dulse seaweed in particular has the most consistent and highest concentrations of iodine, is full of potassium and is an excellent source of protein.
2. Fish Fish can be a great source of dietary iodine, plus omega-3 fatty acids which have been found to contribute to a healthy heart. Deep sea fish such as cod and haddock contain the highest densities of dietary iodine
3.  Coconut Oil The oil from coconut is an age old healing food. Coconut oil contains essential fatty acids needed for proper metabolic function. These fatty acids are easily assimilated by the body and contribute to thyroid function, thyroid hormone production and regulating the metabolism.
4. Beans Beans are a good source of zinc and iron. They also provide quality proteins and are an excellent source of B vitamins and vitamin C
5. Eggs Eggs would be the best source for iodine from dairy food as they contain nearly 16% of the recommended daily value. Milk and yogurt also contains iodine but as some people suffer from digestive problems and intolerance from dairy food, organic eggs might be the way to go in these cases.
6. Liver and Kidney Meat Although not appropriate for vegans or vegetarians, these organ meats, especially beef liver, provide iron, zinc and selenium as well as high-quality proteins. They also provide a more complete, nutrient-dense source of calcium, potassium, Vitamins A, C and D, and the B vitamins than most fruits and vegetables. Again, if you go this route, select products from organic, vegetarian-fed animals
7. Almonds Almonds are a potent source of nutrients needed by the thyroid. Almonds contain iron, selenium and zinc with essential B vitamins and high protein content.
8. Dark Green Leafy Vegetables Spinach, kale, collard greens, swiss chard, mustard or turnip greens are all a great source of iron, B vitamins (needed for hormone creation), Vitamins A, C and D, magnesium and their incredible antioxidants. These superfoods not only supply the nutrients the thyroid needs, they also help protect overall health.

To underscore the importance of what you have read above, the connections between the Thyroid gland, the immune system and Meniere’s, consider these two shocking facts;

According to studies released by Soma General Hospital and Tohoku University in Japan, in April 2015  following the Fukushima nuclear disaster the number of cases of Meniere’s Disease and vertigo has increased by up to a staggering 600%

Similar studies showed an increase of up to 69% in hearing disorders following the Chernobyl disaster and a 100% increase among workers at the power station.

What is the accepted truth that exposure to nuclear contamination results in? Thyroid dysfunction! This is why iodine is used to treat people who have been exposed.  It is all about joining the dots and understanding the need for overall balance inside our bodies. Low grade radiation also attacks the pituitary gland which is part of the endocrine system. The Thyroid is part of the endocrine system. Anything affecting the endocrine system is likely to affect the Thyroid. Read about the connections between Endocrine disorders and Meniere’s here.

What is the big deal with iodine?

Some thyroid imbalances stem from a genetic condition, such as autoimmune thyroid disease. But should the thyroid be deficient in iodine, then all the other above mentioned problems can occur. Given the possible knock on effect for Meniere’s disease sufferers it would be a good idea to make sure your thyroid is healthy.

Iodine is not only the most vital mineral for thyroid function but it is utilized by every cell in the body!

How big a problem is iodine deficiency?

A 1998 report from ‘The Journal of Clinical Endocrinology and Metabolism’ reported that rates of iodine deficiency had dramatically increased in the United States over the past 20 years. The number of U.S. residents with low intake of iodine increased four fold. It was suggested that lowered rates of iodine intake could be traced to dietary changes…..”burger and fries anyone?”

An even more staggering statistic from the World Health Organization estimates that around 1 billion people will suffer from some form of health issue due to a lack of iodine in the diet. Estimates on Latin American countries show up to 25% the population at risk for goiters due to faulty thyroid function from a lack of dietary iodine.

Scientists agree that iodine deficiency is still a serious global health issue, and that insufficient levels of iodine in the thyroid is the most common cause of global brain damage. Estimates show that approximately 1.6 billion people are at risk for brain damage due to lack of iodine, and that these numbers fall heavily on unborn fetuses and children. Globally, a lack of iodine will effect around 50 million children.

Given this statistic, it is fair to say at least some people will grow from birth with a higher possibility of thyroid dysfunction through lack of iodine that will have the knock on effect in later life of developing Meniere’s disease.

There is a delicate relationship between the thyroid gland, iodine levels, and overall health. Without iodine, energy levels plummet, hormones can become imbalanced, and physical and emotional states can suffer.

If you have read this far then I am sure you are easily joining the dots and understanding why there is a need for balance throughout the body. Thyroid dysfunctions are related to Meniere’s in at least some of us and it could be simply a lack of iodine at the root cause.

A qualified doctor or nutritionist can detect current iodine levels through a simple urine test. A small percentage of people are iodine sensitive so in the case of iodine supplementation you should begin in small amounts to prevent a thyroid flare-up.

The best form of iodine to supplement with is nascent iodine or natural sea iodine It is much purer and biologically accepted by the body. Dr Edward Group of the Global Healing Center recommends everyone supplement with nascent iodine on a regular basis.

How does Nascent iodine help:

• Keeps thyroid iodine levels in balance
• Improves thyroid and endocrine system function
• May improve emotional disorders by balancing glandular systems
• Helps regulate hormone imbalances associated with weight gain
• Works as a moisturizing expectorant for the respiratory tract
• Helps protect the thyroid from absorbing radioactive isotopes
• Assists in improving brain development
• May assist in reducing or preventing goiters
• Aids in the improvement of autistic children
• Helps aid digestion, transit time and normal bowel function
• Increased energy and stamina have been reported
• Supports breast milk production and quality
• Helps balance body odors (vaginal, foot, underarm, etc.)
• Helps detoxify harmful halogens like bromides, fluoride, and chlorine

If you found this article useful Click here to support Meniere’s Help paypal.me/menieres

Endocrine Disorders and Meniere’s Disease

Metabolism and Meniere’s Disease

By Mike Spencer
Founder of Menieres Help
Researcher and author of Managing Meniere’s Disease 
and The Need for Balance

Help others who suffer from Meniere’s disease

What are your experiences with thyroid/endocrine issues and Meniere’s? Tell us all about it in the comments box below or email Mike at meniereshelp@gmail.com

Further reading/references: Hypothyroidism is an independent risk factor for Menière’s disease: A population-based cohort study

Foods That Destroy Your Immune System

Is your food destroying your immune system?

Having a strong, fully functioning immune system is vital to deal with the inflammation that causes your Meniere’s symptoms.
Supporting your immune system with a balanced healthy diet of whole foods (preferably organic) low in salt, sugar and bad fats and high in anti oxidants and other vital nutrients is essential for anybody. But for a Meniere’s sufferer or someone with any other degenerative disease, it is even more important.

In a body that is experiencing imbalances and dysfunctions within the ear the immune system is struggling badly to cope with inflammation and needs help. We see the results of this in symptoms such as tinnitus, dizziness and vertigo etc.

Giving all the nutrients it needs to combat inflammation and allow the ear and lymphatic system to function as it should and preventing or fixing any malfunctions developing is just plain common sense.

Nutrition is always the main factor when considering the strength or weakness of your immune system. Eating whole, organic foods that are free of additives and synthetic chemicals provide the best nutrients to your cells without any toxins. This food nourishes your body and supports immune function. Unfortunately not all foods do that.

Some of the worst foods that destroy your immune system:

1. Red Meat?

   A recent study from the University of California suggests red meat can trigger a dangerous reaction that can weaken the immune system.  The problem comes from a natural sugar in red meat that our bodies can’t digest. The sugar is believed to cause a host of other health problems including a higher risk of cancer.

   This has to be balanced with studies that show red meat, in particular beef can have a very beneficial effect and enable the body to deal with certain autoimmune conditions.  What helps with one person might be a problem for another and of course the quality in terms of safety in the raising of livestock you are getting your meat from.

2. Fried Foods

   Fried foods can trigger inflammation, reducing the effectiveness of your immunity.  One study published in the Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism suggests that just cutting back on fried foods — or cutting them out of your diet altogether — could “help restore the body’s natural defenses regardless of age or health status.”  In addition to this, fried foods accumulate ‘acrylamide’, a dangerous carcinogen.

3. Processed Foods

   One of the biggest problems with our culture today is our passive acceptance of overly processed foods. All in all they must be the most dangerous foods to immune health. More and more people are understanding this and switching to fresh organic diets.

   Many food companies use the terms ‘natural’ to describe their product, even though their foods may have large amounts of refined carbohydrates, added sugar, and other hidden often toxic flavorings and additives

   Even organic processed foods, like cereal and breads, can contain immune-suppressing sugar. Processed foods are basically anything that comes in a package, contains more than one ingredient, and has been cooked and modified.

   Eating processed foods can lead to chronic irritation in the body. A recent study published in Nutrition Journal [Fast food fever: reviewing the impacts of the Western diet on immunity. ] even suggests that the toxins of a modern diet completely outweigh the possible nutritional gains.  Processed food is not only full of triggers for a Meniere’s sufferer, it is generally weakening the immune system all round, leading to a higher rate of other illnesses and diseases, and all round poor health.

4. Sugary Snacks

   Refined sugar,  can actually suppress the immune system. One study published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition suggests that the sugar actually targets the cells that attack bacteria.  This negative effect on the body can last for hours after you eat something sugary.

5. Soda All sodas contain phosphoric acid. Phosphoric acid can deplete calcium and magnesium in the body. If you’re drinking soda — it really doesn’t matter what it’s sweetened with — you’re likely damaging your immune system. Even diet soda is a bad option, possibly worse because it usually contains aspartame.

   Because soda has no beneficial nutrients, drinkers are less likely to get enough vitamin A, calcium, and magnesium—all necessary for an optimum immune system.

If you want a healthy immune system, starting by eliminating these foods from your diet would seem very wise.  Eat foods that boost your immunity instead. These include vitamin C rich foods like green vegetables and citrus. Exercise is also prudent. Even simple moderate exercise like walking can help build your immune system. Stress has a negative effect on your immune system so finding ways to reduce stress is very important.

Supplementing with a quality, balanced, anti oxidant filled multi vitamin/mineral supplement can help support your immune system, while Oregano oil is also a powerful harmful organism cleanser and may have some benefit for immune health.

If you are not convinced yet about the importance of what you eat and your health, watch this short but excellent video:

A Message from your body; Video

If you found this article useful Click here to support Meniere’s Help paypal.me/menieres

Bottom line for someone with Meniere’s disease is this: Over 12 years we have had many people contact us and report positive improvements in their condition after making the correct dietary changes. In addition, supplementing with the regimen we have used for over a decade makes even more difference, allowing people to live free of symptoms.

Not everyone is the same and we may all have different root causes and contributing triggers. But cutting immune damaging ‘foods’ out of your life and eating more immune strengthening foods is a very good place to start when dealing with Meniere’s or any other disease.

Related articles:

Food Allergies and Meniere’s Disease

Gluten and Meniere’s Disease

By Mike Spencer
Founder of Meniere’s Help
Researcher and author of Managing Meniere’s Disease and The Need for Balance – Dealing with the Causes of Meniere’s

Help Other Meniere’s Sufferers

What are your experiences with dietary issues or changes and Meniere’s.? Tell us all about it in the comments box below or email Mike at meniereshelp@gmail.com

Low Salt Diet for Meniere’s Disease

Low Salt Diet to reduce the symptoms of Meniere’s Disease

The apparent importance of a low salt or low sodium diet for Meniere’s sufferers is well known and well documented. More sodium can mean more fluid retention in your body.

One of the first things your treating doctor will usually advise when you are diagnosed with Meniere’s Disease is to keep your intake of salt low.  In today’s world of processed foods, junk foods and snacks or even eating out and just cooking fresh food at home, it may feel very difficult to stick to a diet as low as 1500 mg of sodium per day.

Is a low salt diet for Meniere’s disease really that difficult? Is it that important and what are the alternatives?

On February 29th Huffington Post Australia reported on a Meniere’s patient named Emily George and how a low salt diet enabled her to live free of her symptoms.

Emily was diagnosed with Meniere’s in 2011. After suffering one too many vertigo attacks, she was of course advised to change her diet.

She told Huff post,

“My neurologist recommended a low sodium diet to help manage the symptoms,”

“I stopped using salt immediately and within weeks I was vertigo free.”

But it wasn’t only Emily’s symptoms of vertigo and dizziness that disappeared.

“My blood pressure has also come down, I am less bloated and now my family and I eat a lot less processed foods,” she said.

When sufferers are first told to stop drinking alcohol and reduce salt intake many wonder how they will cope with such a big change in their life. Wont life be boring and food flavorless without any salt?

In my own case, it was easy to quit alcohol and after a very short time food actually tasted better without added table salt. I could taste the true natural flavor of vegetables and it was easy to substitute salt with other flavorings in the kitchen.

Many years later. after recovering from Meniere’s I noticed an important observation in hindsight. Shortly after my worst year with vertigo I went into remission for around 6 to 8 months. At the time I didn’t care why and never gave it a thought. I was just ecstatic to have my life back again albeit temporary.

When later analyzing why, I could put it down to two things despite the fact I hadn’t been watching my salt intake at all and drank occasionally at that time. So what was different?

I had become very physically fit, going to the gym several times a week and the real surprise was I had been using natural sea salt crystals rather than common table salt. At the time, salt was salt to me; just the crystals that my wife was buying seemed more fancy sitting on the dinner table.

You might say, well sodium is sodium right? And although your body needs a certain amount of sodium to function properly we all know about how it supposedly raises blood pressure and causes the body to retain fluid if over consumed. So what’s the difference?

The difference is, while common table salt has been heavily processed to the point where it is virtually robbed of all its original nutrient value, is totally unbalanced and is ‘just sodium’ plus some additives. Something like Himalayan salt crystals is completely natural and its minerals are balanced so there much less possibility of an overload with sodium.  The minerals work in synergy with other nutrients inside the body in a beneficial way.

Himalayan salt crystals have been deep in the earth for over 250 million years and are toxin free. Containing all the natural minerals that are vital to the human body, it’s safe and more beneficial than any other processed salt.

Natural sea salt is a great source of iodine.  Though little attention is given to it, iodine deficiency is a major problem in the western world and contributes to Thyroid problems which have been linked to Meniere’s possibly because of the effect that has on weakening the immune system.

It also balances the body’s pH. It has been shown that disease states such as Meniere’s and cancer are unable to manifest in alkalized human cells. Some cancer research suggests our bodies can become too acidic.

Much of nature’s best medicine in plants helps keep our body’s cells pH well balanced through their alkalizing effect.   (The pH Miracle is well worth reading to learn how you can take care of your pH levels and avoid disease)

In the bible the term “salt of the earth” was first used and there is good reason for that. It was a prized mineral and was even used as a form of ‘money’ in ancient times. Sadly, in recent times the blind acceptance of over processing for mass production, distribution and profit of every food source has become the norm at the obvious expense of our health.

These days, at a time I value non toxic organic food more than anything, I wouldn’t use processed table salt if you paid me. I only use pure sea salts.

If you sticking to processed table salt are and attempting a low salt diet Emily George promises that it is possible — in fact, it’s actually better, she says.

“The first two-to-three weeks were pretty hard — food tasted bland,” Emily said.

“But once I got past that point, everything tasted better than it had previously — there was so much more flavor in food that I couldn’t taste before as it always had salt added.”

“Now if I have a taste of something which has been salted, I can taste it instantly and it is often unpalatable to me,”

(I feel exactly the same as Emily with my food)

Aside from helping her manage her Meniere’s disease, following a low sodium diet has also improved her cooking skills.

“It also made me a better cook because I couldn’t just rely on throwing in some salt for flavor any more,” Emily added. “Now I use lots of fresh herbs and spices and different cooking methods to make food taste great.”

As outlined in her new  book, ‘The No Salt Cookbook’, there are a number of ways to add flavor without the need for salt.

Emily told Huff Post “Fresh herbs, spices, lemon juice and vinegar are all excellent sources of flavor,” .

“A dash of red wine in a beef casserole is delicious.”

She also recommends trying alternate methods of cooking to bring out different flavors in food, such as poaching, roasting or barbecuing.

“Marinating meats overnight instead of just an hour or so can really intensify the flavor,”

If you are suffering with Meniere’s Disease and in particular vertigo. Consider using Himalayan Salt Crystals and/or try Emily’s recipes  from The No Salt Cookbook. (check some of her mouth watering recipes in the Huffington Post article)

Low salt diet for Meniere’s disease explained

Sodium is an essential electrolyte for life. It helps maintain the balance of water in and around your cells. It’s important for proper muscle and nerve function. It also helps maintain stable blood pressure levels.

Insufficient sodium in your blood is also known as hyponatremia. Some of the symptoms of hyponatremia can include altered personality, lethargy and confusion. Severe hyponatremia can cause seizures, coma and even death.

Lethargy, or lack of energy is something many Meniere’s sufferers experience. Confusion could be interpreted as brain fog, another symptom of Meniere’s. Moreover, there may some gray area between a drop attack suffered by some Meniere’s patients and seizures.

Clearly salt, or sodium, has significance for Meniere’s sufferers but quite how may be a little misunderstood. There are studies suggesting that too little sodium can cause vertigo, yet another symptom of Meniere’s.

Too much or too little sodium is clearly a health risk. If you ate a normal healthy fresh food diet and added table salt in moderation, in normal circumstances it would be unlikely to cause any problem. 

Both sodium and potassium, two essential electrolytes are both regulated by insulin. Blood sugar irregularities such as diabetes and hypoglycemia can affect insulin production.

A significant number of Meniere’s sufferers have also experienced hypoglycemia or blood sugar level irregularities. Click on the link above to read more on this.

However, the real problem perhaps lies in our overall eating habits. Processed foods, sauces and in particular fast foods can be packed full of sodium (in addition to potentially harmful chemicals). 

For example, a serving of fresh asparagus, cooked would average 1mg of sodium, while the same serving of canned asparagus would be 236mg.

A serving of regular roasted Peanuts would average 5mg, salted peanuts 418mgs and peanut butter 607mg.

Consider this; the usual medical advice for a Meniere’s sufferer would be to follow a low sodium diet, usually in the range of 1500-2000 mg per day. But is this in fact a low sodium diet?

According to the US CDC, the guidelines for everyone is to consume less than 2,300 mg per day. So that seems pretty much similar to a “low salt diet”. Now balance that with the fact that the average American consumes 3400 mg per day. (See list of sodium in common foods below)

If you are eating fast food regularly, then your sodium intake may be much higher than that even.

No consider that it may not be just the amount of sodium consumed daily but the sudden spike in sodium after eating fast foods. It could be this sudden fluctuation in sodium that will increase the fluid retention in the tissues of your affected ear. 

A constant bombardment of sodium may be continually upsetting the sodium/potassium balance in addition to continually swelling (inflaming) the tissues in the affected ear.

The bottom line is, we may be consuming too much sodium in the first place, meaning a low sodium diet for Meniere’s is rather what should perhaps be a regular diet – if we ate sensibly in the first place.

If you have spent much time on our main website, Meneieres-Help.Com, you will know how relevant inflammation is to this condition and most other common diseases. If you cook yourself or are cooking for a Meniere’s sufferer The Anti-Inflammation Cookbook: ‘The Delicious Way to Reduce Inflammation and Stay Healthy’ by Amanda Haas and Dr. Bradly Jacobs is a great book to have in your kitchen. It is the #1 best seller in Cancer cookbooks on Amazon.

Meniere’s Help received this message from Murry in Australia regarding sodium:

“I need to write my story as well – just to give other people encouragement and strength to push through it, for me the biggest relief was to limit  salt / sodium.

I finally found a specialist who said cut the intake of foods to those that have less than 120mg / 100g. We thought we ate well (carefully) but when went home and cleaned out the pantry we were shocked by the amount of stuff (>120mg/100g) we threw out.

Vertigo / vomiting stopped almost over night

RHS ear still very buggered, LHS not the best and every day is different i.e. Shall I wear the hearing aids today?  But the appreciation of music has recovered and I no longer have the vertigo

Regards from

Murray Hunt”

Low Salt Diets

For those watching their measures of sodium. The University of Washington has a list of Sodium Content of Common Foods:

The information below is provided to assist patients maintain a low-sodium diet by: Alec N. Salt, Ph.D.,
Cochlear Fluids Research Laboratory, Washington University, St. Louis:

Dietary Salt (sodium) Intake

Physicians may initially suggest a partially reduced salt level, in the range of 1000 – 2000 mg/day, to see if symptoms can be alleviated. Maintaining a sodium intake below 2000 mg/day requires considerable effort. Eating in restaurants causes difficulty as the majority of restaurant food is salted. To maintain a low sodium diet, you need to scrutinize the “Nutritional Information” boxes on food cartons. The amount of salt is listed as “sodium”.

Choose those products which would give you the least sodium, based on the amount of product you eat. Note that many “high salt” products (ketchup, salad dressing, corn chips) show relatively low sodium values based on very small serving portions (who eats only 12 corn chips at a sitting??). What is important is the total amount of sodium you are eating each day. As shown in the list below, fresh fruits and vegetables have low sodium content, but avoid adding salt to vegetables during preparation. The following advice may help maintain a low salt intake.

• Do not use salt at the table
• Reduce the salt used in food preparation. Try 1/2 teaspoon when recipes call for 1 teaspoon. Many cakes and desserts can be prepared without adding salt.
• Use herbs and spices for flavoring meats and vegetables instead of salt.
• Avoid salty foods such as processed meat and fish, pickles, soy sauce, salted nuts, chips and other snack foods.
• Check every “Nutritional Information” label before you buy or use a product. Note sodium and portion size information.

A cautionary note: The body possesses exquisite systems which accurately regulate body sodium. The goal of a low sodium diet is to “push” this regulation system toward one end of its range, without pushing it to the limit when body sodium starts falling. Although a low-salt diet if difficult to achieve, be aware that the low-salt diet can be “overdone” with possible adverse consequences.

For this reason, if your vestibular symptoms persist, do not keep decreasing your salt intake. The level of sodium intake should be decided in consultation with your physician or nutritionist. Lower levels require more rigorous monitoring by your physician. You should also be aware that your body can lose sodium by a number of routes other than in the urine. Sweating, vomiting and diarrhea can all produce significant sodium loss. In addition, other diseases, such as those which impair kidney function, may result in greater than normal sodium losses. In the event of adverse symptoms, you should contact your physician.

Sodium Content of Common Foods

All values are given in mg of sodium for a 100 g (3.5 oz) food portion. These values are a guide. More accurate values are given in the Nutritional Information on the package of most products, in the form of mg of sodium per serving.

• Apple, raw unpeeled 1
• Apple juice, bottled 1
• Applesauce, sweetened 2
• Asparagus, cooked 1 (regular canned 236)
• Avocado 4
• Bacon, cooked 1021
• Bacon, Canadian 2500
• Baking powder 11,000
• Banana 1
• Barly, pearled 3
• Beans, Lima 1 (regular canned 236)
• Beans, snap green, cooked 4 (regular canned 236)
• Beans, white common, cooked 7
• Beans, canned with pork and tomato sauce 463
• Bean sprouts, cooked 4
• Beef, roasted broiled or stewed 60
• Beef, corned 1,740
• Beef hash, canned 540
• Beef, dried 4,300
• beef hamburger 47
• Beef pie or stew, commercial 400
• Beets, cooked 43 (regular canned 236)
• Beverages, beer 7
• Beverages, liquor 1 (avoid margueritas with salt!)
• Beverages, wine 5
• Beverage, soda 0 to 100 (check can)
• Beverage, fruit drink 0
• Beverage, water 0
• Biscuits 630
• Blackberries 1
• Bluefish, cooked 104
• Bouillon cubes 24,000
• Bread 300 to 500
• Broccoli, cooked 10
• Brussel sprouts, cooked 10
• Butter, salted 826 (unsalted – less than 10)
• Cabbage 20
• Cakes 100 to 300
• Candy, caramels, fudge 200
• Candy, hard, marshmallow, peanut brittle 30
• Cantaloupe 12
• Carrots 40 (regular canned 236)
• Cashews, unsalted 15
• Cauliflower 10
• Celery, raw 126 (cooked 88)
• Cereals bran, wheat, crude 9
• Cereals, commercial 700 to 1100
• Cereal, Corn grits 1
• Cereal, Cornmeal 1
• Cereal, Farina, dry 2 (cooked salted or instant 160)
• Cereal, Oatmeal, dry 2 (cooked salted 218)
• Cereal, Rice flakes 987
• Cereal, wheat flakes 1000
• Cereal, wheat, puffed 4
• Cereal, wheat, shredded 3
• Cheese, cheddar 620
• Cheese, processed 1189
• Cheese, cottage 406
• Cheese, cream 296
• Cheese, Mozzarella 373
• Cheese, Parmesan 1,862
• Cheese, Swiss 260
• Cherries, Raw 2
• Chicken, cooked, without skin 60 to 80
• Chicken pot pie, commercial 411
• Chickpeas, dry 8
• Chicory 7
• Chili con carne, canned with beans 531
• Chili powder with seasonings 1574
• Chocolate, plain 4
• Chocolate syrup 52
• Clams, raw soft 36
• Clams, hard, round 205
• Cocoa, dry 6
• Cocoa, processed 717
• Coconut, fresh 23
• Coffee, instant, dry 72
• Coffee, beverage, 1
• Collards, cooked 25
• Cookies, Fig bars 252
• Cookies, oatmeal 170
• Cookies , plain 365
• Corn, sweet, cooked 0 (regular canned 236)
• Cowpeas, dry, cooked 8
• Crabmeat, canned 1000
• Crackers, Graham 670
• Crackers, saltines 1,100
• Cranberry juice or sauce 1
• Cream 40
• Cucumber 6
• Dates 1
• Doughnuts 500
• Duck 74
• Eggplant, cooked 1
• Egg, whole, raw 74 (whites 152, yolk 49)
• Endive, curly 14
• Figs 2
• Flounder 78
• Flour 2
• Fruit cocktail 5
• Gelatin, dry 0 (sweetened, ready-to eat 51)
• Grapefruit, fresh, canned or juice 1
• Grapes 3
• Haddock, raw 61 (battered 177)
• Heart, beef 86
• Herring 74
• Honey 5
• Honeydew melon 12
• Ice cream, vanilla 87
• Jams and preserves 12
• Jellies 17
• Kale, cooked 43
• Lamb, lean 70
• Lard 0
• Lasagna 490
• Lemon, juice or fresh 1
• Lettuce 9
• Lime, fresh or juice 1
• Liver, beef 184
• Liver, pork 111
• Lobster 210
• Macaroni, dry 2 (commercial with cheese 543)
• Margarine 987
• Milk 50
• Milk, buttermilk 130
• Milk, evaporated 106
• Milk, dried 549
• Molasses, light 15 (Dark 96)
• Muffins, plain 441
• Mushrooms 14 (canned 400)
• Mustard, prepared yellow 1,252
• Mustard greens 18
• Nectarine 6
• Noodles, dry 5
• Nuts, in shell 1 (processed nuts may contain high amounts of salt)
• Oil, corn 0
• Okra, 2
• Olives, green 2,400
• Onions, green 5 (mature 10)
• Orange peeled, juice, canned or juice 1
• Oysters, raw 73
• Pancakes 425
• Papayas, raw 3
• Parsley 45
• Parsnips, cooked 8
• Peaches 2
• Peanuts, roasted 5 (salted 418)
• Peanut butter 607
• Pears 2
• Peas, cooked 2 (regular canned 236)
• Peas, dried 40
• Pecans, shelled 0
• Peppers, green 13
• Perch 79
• Pickles, dill 1,428
• Pickles, relish, sweet 712
• Pie 250 to 450
• Pie crust, baked 617
• Pike, walleye 51
• Pineapple, raw or canned 1
• Pizza, cheese 702
• Plums 2
• Popcorn, salted with oil 1,940
• Pork 65
• Pork, cured ham 930
• Pork canned ham 1,100
• Potatoes, baked, boiled or french fried 2 to 6
• Potatoes, mashed salted 331
• Potato chips, up to 1000
• Pretzels 1680
• Prunes 4
• Pumpkin, canned 2
• Radishes 18
• Raisins, dried 27
• Raspberries 1
• Rhubarb 2
• Rice, dry 5 (cooked salted 374)
• Rolls, bread or sweet 400 to 550
• Rutabagas 4
• Rye wafers 882
• Salad dressing 700 to 1300
• Salmon 64 (canned 387)
• Sardines, canned 400
• Sauerkraut 747
• Sausage, pork 958
• Sausage, Frankfurter 1,100
• Sausage, Bologna 1,300
• Scallops, 265
• Shrimp 150
• Soup, canned 350 to 450
• Spaghetti, dry 2
• Spaghetti with meatballs, canned 488
• Spinach, raw 71 (cooked 50)
• Squash 1
• Strawberries 1
• Sugar, white 1 (brown 30)
• Sunflower seeds 30
• Sweet  potatoes 12
• Syrup 68
• Tapioca, dry 3
• Tomato 3 (canned 130)
• Tomato ketchup 1,042
• Tomato juice, canned 200
• Tongue, beef 61
• Tuna in oil 800
• Turkey, 82
• Turnips 34
• Veal 80
• Vinegar 1
• Waffles 475
• Walnuts 3
• Watermelon 1
• Wheat germ 827
• Yeast, compressed 16 (dry , active 52)
• Yoghurt 46

A final word – Something for you to contemplate

I spent 10 years 95% free of symptoms through good nutrition before fully ridding myself of Meniere’s in 2012 (Click here to read my story). About two years into this period of being symptom free I visited my old home in Hawaii. I was living in Japan and eating normally (not counting my sodium intake). 

Within two days of being in Hawaii and eating Burger Kings and the like, I suddenly felt dizzy again. That sudden spike in sodium (and whatever else was in that junk food) and the resulting dizziness took several days to subside.

Moral of the story? While you are living with Meniere’s, eat fresh whole foods, avoid processed foods and junk. Eat what natures makes not what man makes.

If you found this article useful Click here to support Meniere’s Help paypal.me/menieres

Related articles:

Hypoglycemia and Meniere’s disease

Nutritional Supplements for Meniere’s disease

Dealing with Tinnitus

By Mike Spencer

Founder of Meniere’s Help – Supporting sufferers since 2004

Researcher and writer of Managing Meniere’s Disease and The Need for Balance – Dealing with the Causes of Meniere’s

Help other Meniere’s Sufferers:

What are your experiences with salt, Himalayan salt and Meniere’s? Do you have any advise for low salt cooking? Tell us all about it in the comments box below or email Mike at meniereshelp@gmail.com

References/Further reading:

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30596397/