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Meniere's Disease Triggers & Causes General Information on Meniere's Disease / Syndrome Meniere's Disease and Nutrition

Candida Albicans 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
  • Poor dietary habits including high intake of sugar
  • Chemical/environmental toxins
  • Alcohol
  • Food and environmental allergies
  • Hypothyroidism
  • Diabetes (candida loves sugar)
  • Gallbladder problems
  • HCL & enzymatic deficiencies
  • Hypoglycemia/Hypoadrenia
  • Impaired liver function
  • Mercury leakage from Amalgam dental fillings

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 supplements and 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 candida yeast 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.

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

Related articles:

Menieres disease and food allergies
Gluten and Meniere’s Disease
Can Meniere’s Disease be caused by Autoimmunity?

By Mike Spencer

Founder of Menieres-Help.Com -Supporting Sufferers Since 2004

Researcher & 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 candida albicans, fungal infections and Meniere’s. Tell us all about it in the comments boxes below or email Mike at meniereshelp@gmail.com

References/Further reading:

Looking into Candida albicans infection, host response, and antifungal strategies

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Meniere's Disease Triggers & Causes Meniere's Disease and Nutrition

Food Allergies and Meniere’s Disease

How food allergies and intolerances may affect the symptoms of Meniere’s Disease

Do a simple search for studies on food allergies & intolerances related to Meniere’s Disease and a relatively long list will be pulled up.

One important thing to note perhaps is that most reference studies from the same source: American Academy of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery – (Derebury), in which it is suggested that as many as 30% of Meniere’s sufferers may have food allergies that at least contribute to their condition.

It is hypothesized that allergies may contribute in 3 possible ways:

  1. The endolymphatic sac may be the “target organ” of mediator released from systemic inhalant or food reactions.
  2. Deposition of circulating immune complex may produce inflammation and interfere with the sac’s filtering capability.
  3. A predisposing viral infection may interact with allergies in adulthood and cause the endolymphatic sac to decompensate, resulting in endolymphatic hydrops (Derebery, 1996).

Dr Timothy Haines, a long time writer on Meniere’s doesn’t have much confidence in these theories, stating that a. Hydrops may not necessarily be the key factor in the condition’s pathology and b. In his experience immunotherapy for allergy, is almost never a curative treatment for Meniere’s disease.

So lets look at some facts and experiences of sufferers who have contacted us over the years.

In 2000 the study “Allergic management of Meniere’s disease: an outcome study”, published in the official journal of the American Academy of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, stated the following (excerpt summary):

“The effect of allergy immunotherapy and elimination of suspected food allergens was evaluated in patients with Meniere’s disease.  113 patients treated with desensitization and diet showed a significant improvement from pretreatment to posttreatment in both allergy and Meniere’s symptoms.  Hearing was stable or improved in 61.4%. Patients with Meniere’s disease can show improvement in their symptoms of tinnitus and vertigo when receiving specific allergy therapy. The inner ear may be the target, directly or indirectly, of an allergic reaction.”

In the 1996 Derebery paper in the same journal, it states interestingly that:

” Meniere’s disease, although idiopathic by definition, has been ascribed to a variety of causes, which more recently include autoimmune factors. Interest in the role of allergy in Meniere’s disease has also increased. Studies from this institution and elsewhere provide evidence that allergy and immunologic factors play a role in Meniere’s disease in at least some patients“

The aim of Meniere’s Help has always been two fold. Firstly, giving you the information you need to take appropriate action therefore enabling your immune system to deal with the inflammation, balance your various body systems and allow you to live symptom free, regardless of your root cause. And secondly identifying your particular root cause or causes and eliminating them from your life, and therefore free yourself from Meniere’s completely.

In our formative years we had multiple thousands contact us who were ultimately able to live symptom free. In latter years with our focus very much on root causes and contributing triggers we have had many more who were able to rid themselves of Meniere’s completely. It all comes down to knowledge and using that knowledge for your particular case.

It has to be said that it seems at first glance that food allergies and intolerances have not been the most common cause with the many people who contact us, but there have been plenty of notable exceptions. I would say it is something very worthwhile getting checked for and crossing off your list of possibilities and perhaps is an often ignored aspect.

Sizable enough numbers of people who have Meniere’s have found they have allergies to wheat, gluten, soy and/or some dairy foods.

Gluten intolerance 

The “increased interest” in allergies and Menieres Derebery speaks of may coincide with the huge increase in gluten intolerance, allergies or celiac disease in recent years. The extent of the relevance of that is debatable but the facts can not be ignored.

‘Interesting‘ because gluten intolerance is not a true allergy but rather a problem with gut flora.  With diagnosis not easy and often expensive, many people may never be diagnosed. Data varies, but just taking one quoted statistic that a decade ago, gluten-intolerance levels were at 1 in 2500 worldwide and today, it’s at 1 in 133 shows a shocking increase.

Why would such a huge number of the population suddenly start developing an intolerance to what has been part of the staple diet of a sizable portion of the world for generations?

Answers will vary depending on who you ask but I think it is obvious that forced food practices, food preparation, the introduction of GMO and the proliferation of pesticides, herbicides, fungicides, chemical fertilizers, additives and other environmental pollutants is killing or at least affecting adversely the the tiny organisms that we need inside our gut.

The bacteria contains billions of neurons which is why the gut is often called the second brain and it is vital to the immune system, so we can easily join the dots and equate the explosion in degenerative diseases in the past half century at the very least with the modern culture of eating highly processed foods rather than fresh organic foods.

Is it any wonder that the supplement industry and in particular the drug industry is so huge these days, as is perversely, the agricultural chemical industry. When you take into account that organic farming (which should simply be termed “farming” as apposed to the ‘chemical farming’ that produces most of our food) is not much more than a cottage industry, there is definitely something wrong.

Modern “food convenience” it could be argued is resulting in mass poor health where the only winners are the CEO’s and share holders of huge multi national drug and chemical corporations. But at what cost to their own families and the general population?

Gluten in the form we know today is a neurotoxin and of course the central nervous system has been linked to Meniere’s. Over the past 50 years, hybridization wheat grains has taken place to supposedly increase crop yield ( the results of that are highly debatable)  and lengthen ‘shelf life’. A protein called gliadin was added to grain. It is thought that higher concentrations of this protein has made wheat less digestible, which causes an allergy or reaction. Increased antibodies to gliadin, may have a negative impact on the neural system.

Gluten intolerance is much more prevalent in the USA than Europe. Gluten intolerant Americans who have eaten wheat in Europe have asked the reason why they don’t have any problems there but do at home. There are two very relevant yet contentious answers to that. Europe does not as a rule allow GMO crops therefore there is less gliadin and it also does not allow (as of the time of writing) the use of glyphosate herbicide.

A study published in the journal, Laryngoscope stated the following:
 
“Wheat is one of the most common food allergens found in patients with Meniere’s disease (MD). Gluten from wheat has been identified to have a etiopathogenetic role in celiac disease, IgE hypersensitivity to wheat disease, and recently to gluten sensitivity. The aim of this study was to verify the incidence of gliadin prick test response in patients affected by MD.

Meniere’s Help reader’s experiences with food intolerances and the symptoms of Meniere’s

There were 58 adult patients with definite MD, 25 healthy volunteers, and 25 patients with grass pollen rhinoconjunctivitis tested with skin prick test to gliadin.

A total of 33 MD patients (56.9%) proved to be sensitive to gliadin, eight of whom were positive to prick test after 20 minutes, 13 after 6 hours, 11 after 12 hours, and one after 24 hours.”

We have long preached at Meniere’s Help the importance of what you eat and do not eat often being vital to help reduce or stop your symptoms (and often in the early days to the derision and skepticism of some in online forums, some doctors and some of our early readers – those people are very few and far between these days).

What do our readers have to say on the subject? Below are some extracts from mails to Meniere’s Help from sufferers,  that paint an interesting picture regarding what we eat, food and in particular gluten allergies and intolerances (used with permission):

“I have been suffering with Meniere’s for over 12 years. I’m otherwise very healthy. I have given up gluten, lactose, caffeine and cut way back on refined sugar. But these 6 weeks were tough. I was so exhausted I could barely get out of bed. I found your site about 2 weeks ago and read about the supplements. I ordered all of the maximum recommendation.

I started taking them a week ago and have been dizzy free for 4 days. My head is clear, I have energy, and my vision has returned to normal. I got up on Saturday and walked over to the window. I was in awe that there was so much color outside. It was like I was seeing beautiful color for the first time. And the brain fog had lifted. I still have the tinnitus and if I move my head too suddenly I can feel the dizziness during my movement so I know it’s still there. But this is honestly better than I imagined I would feel so soon after starting.

I don’t know if it’s the supplements or the recent episode (which I suspect was brought on by allergies) had run its course but I feel fantastic. I have boundless energy and found myself actually laughing and feeling playful like my old self. If progress continues I plan to do the full vitamin routine for 90 days and then transition to a maintenance program of the 4 supplements that the vast majority take to live symptom free.

It’s been a long, rough road but I am truly hopeful of living with fewer and/or less intense episodes for the first time since my initial diagnosis.

I’ll let you know if the progress continues.
Thanks for giving me hope
Katherine“

“Thanks for such an informative website.  I have, for a few months now, been reading through all the information on the site.  Your approach and philosophy to meniere’s really strikes a chord with me.I currently follow a strict low sodium diet, have recently given up both caffeine and alcohol (well, I have a decaf coffee once a day – not chemically decaffeinated) and have reduced my wheat/gluten intake severely…..(recent poor health has prompted me to become very interested in cellular nutrition!).“ 

“I suffer what could be Meniere’s disease, however I don’t yet experience vertigo. I have a roaring hissing tinnitus in my left ear and facial pain on left side and fullness in my ear.

Another point is I have suffered from food allergies such as gluten, sugar, and processed foods as they have created a numbing sensation for years prior to my condition now.“

“Hey Mike,

Thank you for following up, again…  I do appreciate it. After reading your book I have taken the following action for myself.

    1. I’ve stopped all Dr. Meds with the exception of a diuretic.  (I had stopped but felt that my hearing worsened a little so I went back on it and it has seemed to help)
    2. I have great pharmaceutical grade supplements.
    3. I have dramatically altered my diet, cut my sodium way back to no more than 1500 MG on a typical day.
    4. I have met with Dr Derebery of the House Ear Institute in LA and have gone through extensive allergy testing.

I have discovered that drinking alcohol and beer have a definite negative effect on my hearing so I’ve cut them out as well, (for the most part).  I’ve also mostly cut out all processed wheat, am attempting to cut out gluten, and have gone to a mainly whole foods diet which included plenty of organic fruits, veggies, and non GMO meats, ( among other foods as well).

So far I have seen improvement.  My hearing has cleared up some in both ears.  The “fog” I was living with has subsided and my tinnitus has decreased as well.  Earlier this year my hearing was so bad that I was unable to hear the fan that is placed right next to my head at night.  For years I have not been able to speak on the phone with my right ear and now I am able to.

Finally, THANK YOU, THANK YOU, THANK YOU, for having and maintaining your web site and your book.  I have already referred it to a couple of people who I have met that are going through the same problems.  You definitely opened my eyes to alternative options for dealing with these issues, other than the Dr’s telling me to “learn to live with it”, or having to take the potentially toxic medications they were prescribing me.

Thanks again for your help.  I can’t express my appreciation enough!

Craig“

“Hello Mike,
Thank you so much for writing back and yes you are right. I was actually on TCM for 3 months and I thought I had my condition under control.  But soon I noticed that every month the week after my menses, my ear pressure will act up and my left neck will feel so sore and tensed.  I tried watching my diet ala keeping it low salt but soon got complacent.  I am really not very good at dietary control and I really needed to get my hands on your book to be disciplined about it.

I have started to do my regular brisk walking again, seen a chiropractor for some spinal adjustment.. Also plan to see a dentist to enquire about my alignment or even do a prick allergy test because my chiro told me I am allergic to gluten.”

“Hello Mike!

 I just wanted to congratulate you on the completion of your book.  As a fellow Meniere’s sufferer, I sincerely appreciate people like you doing extensive research and publishing what works and what doesn’t work.  More of us need to be solution minded, instead of having a victim mentality. Two years ago, I was literally a mess.  I thought my career was over, I thought my life was over.
    At this time, I have the (vertigo and brain fog) symptoms about 98% under control.  Diet– limited (but not super low) sodium and generally gluten-free.  No diet sugars, no MSG, no caffeine.  I do allow myself some alcohol, but in limited quantities. The supplements.

In any case, just wanted to say kudos for sharing your information.  I watched some of your videos earlier in my struggles, when things were bleak; it’s great for an MM sufferer to have hope that they can conquer this awful disease.

Best regards,
Deborah”

“Thanks for all the info, Mike. I would say that a lot of the triggers do apply to Harry, significant factor  is low adrenal function, often referred to as adrenal fatigue ( see endocrine disorder connections to Meniere’s and metabolism and Meniere’s)  it’s a real vicious circle, with stress being the biggest trigger.

He also has atrophic gastritis (caused by an h.pylori infection) and was 65 (he’s now 71) before we realised he was gluten sensitive.“

“yes we e-mailed u back already.
symptom free for 2 yrs. doing a completely paleo diet.
low carb/ no flour/no gluten/ no sugar or any processed foods.
change was immediate within a few days“

“I’m blessed by having tons more good days than bad. My diet is gluten-free, and pretty much salt and sugar-free.”

“Hi Mike, I just thought that I’d get back to you. Last week my Dr did a Blood test for Celiac Disease. It came out abnormal which means that I might have Celiac. For now it shows that I can’t do Gluten, Wheat, Barley, Rye and in some cases Oats. People with Celiac can’t absorb their Minerals correctly. So it would make sense that the supplements would help.“

“Hi Mike

Thanks for getting back to me.

I’ve had food intolerance tests, I’ve even had my amalgam fillings removed in a bid to feel better.  The food intolerance tests have made a big difference in that I have given up gluten and dairy and this has helped with my energy levels enormously although it took a while.
Thanks again, I do appreciate it.
Lisa“

Of course not everyone with Meniere’s Disease has food allergies or intolerances, but I hope I have demonstrated the possibility and getting at least tested is a must for you to either cross it off your list of possible causes/triggers or if needed to take appropriate action.

In other articles on the blog I have demonstrated the domino effect where seemingly unrelated issues can be vitally important to getting to the root cause of your Meniere’s for example: endocrine – thyroid- metabolism-T cells – Meniere’s.
 
If your gut is not healthy this can lead to many serious conditions, including the symptoms of Meniere’s. Research shows that gut flora supports your immune system, and protects your liver.
 
Ruling out vitamin and mineral deficiencies is something also to consider.  Often times, nutritional deficits can lead to nerve damage.  Most prominent is the loss of myelin (the insulation surrounding the nerves).

Vitamin B-12 deficiency is a common cause of myelin loss, as are copper and vitamin C deficiency.

Often times the deficiencies are caused by gluten induced gastrointestinal damage. B12 has a key role in the normal functioning of the brain and nervous system, the formation of red blood cells, helps in the production of DNA and RNA, is important for metabolism and helps your body produce energy.

No plant or animal can actually make vitamin B12 (only microorganisms as in good gut bacteria can do that), it is typically only animal foods (B12 is stored in the liver) that contain B12 since plants cannot make or store this vitamin. This makes deficiency in vegetarians and vegans who do not compensate a possibility.

Bottom line on Vitamin B12 is that if through gluten or other food allergies and intolerances or toxins the gut flora is depleted then this vital nutrient may be deficient and we can talk about the domino effects and poor health from that forever.

Keeping your gut flora healthy is again about what you eat and do not eat.

Antibiotics also seriously affect intestinal flora and it is advised these days that after a course it should always be followed by a good probiotic. Sugar and artificial sweeteners, alcohol, sometimes coffee, pesticides, emulsifiers in processed and fast foods can all have adverse effects on your gut flora destroying the balance of the approximate one trillion bacteria there.

If the balance in your gut is out the knock effect throughout your body may ultimately throw your inner ear function into dysfunction and contribute to you to suffering with Meniere’s symptoms.

 
If you are a meat eater you may believe you are getting adequate levels of B12. However, the amount of antibiotics pumped unnecessarily into animals in forced farming may be affecting your gut flora and therefore depleting your supply of B12.
 
If you think this a not a problem then consider that just this week (April 2016) powerful financial investors from the city of London warned high street food chains about the serious health risks of using meat and poultry from factory farms. Their concern was that consumer awareness may lead to loss in profits.
 

The financiers, including Aviva Investors, Strathclyde Pension Fund and Coller Capital, are particularly concerned about the use of antibiotics classified as “critically important” to human health and the “routine, preventative” use of drugs on factory farms.

 
This surprising and unprecedented move follows warnings from the World Health Organization (WHO) that antibiotic use in livestock production is contributing to the global threat of a “post-antibiotic era”.
 
Checking and dealing with it is one thing, avoiding it is another. Using a quality probiotic would seem wise and supplementing with Vitamin B 12 equally as wise given what we now know.
 
Fermented foods that have probiotic value are good for your gut flora health such as: natural probiotic yogurt, natto, kefir, sauerkraut, kimchi, tempeh, pickles and lassi.
 
Dr Laurant Bannock DrHS MS LN is a world renowned Nutritionist. In his acclaimed book ‘The Clinical Nutrition Desk Reference’ he recommends using Thymus extract as part of a regimen for Meniere’s.
 
Thymus extract supports the immune system and helps decrease foods allergies.
 
You can see doctor Bannock’s recommendations here: Treatments for Meniere’s disease.
 
To re-emphasize how what you eat can make such a difference, one final email sent to Meniere’s Help:
 

Thanks for the email, Mike.   My husband Eric is still living symptom free…as long as we are eating whole, unprocessed foods and staying healthy by exercising.  As soon as we fall off the healthy food wagon, he begins to feel dizzy again.  Soooo, as long as we’re not slacking off, he does well.

I appreciate the personal touch on your email.  You’re a great guy to help so many people.

Have a great day!

Amy

Amy’s message that a change of diet can make a big difference is not untypical.

Are Food allergies and relevant in Meniere’s disease?

The hypothesis of Derebury as to how allergies might contribute to Meniere’s may or may not be correct but whether right or not it seems clear that allergies, intolerances, gut flora and metabolism are important issues to consider for people who have Meniere’s and what you eat makes a significant difference.

 

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Related articles:

Gluten and Meniere’s Disease
Candida Albicans and Meniere’s Disease
Hypoglycemia and Meniere’s disease

Written by Mike Spencer

Founder of Menieres-Help.Com – Supporting sufferers since 2004

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 Meniere’s and food allergies or intolerances? Tell us all about them in the comment box below or email Mike at: meniereshelp@gmail.com

References/Further reading:

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24573125/

 
Categories
General Information on Meniere's Disease / Syndrome Meniere's Disease Triggers & Causes

Stopping Meniere’s Symptoms During Allergy Season

Allergy season both in spring and autumn/fall always means we get a surge in people contacting us for help at this time of year.

Allergy and the symptoms of Meniere’s disease

The sinuses are an important part of the immune system, filtering and draining away unwanted  allergens and anything potentially harmful being inhaled. Drugs and chemical sprays, stop the runny noses but dry out the sinus therefore stopping it from functioning as it should. The result being, you feel relief but harmful allergens are allowed past your first line of defense and can potentially accumulate elsewhere, in the lymphatic system for example, causing health problems at a later date.

The endolymphatic sac, the area within the ear that produces all the problems in a Meniere’s sufferer is part of the lymphatic system. The Lymphatic system is like a drainage system for the body.

Prevalence of allergy in Meniere’s disease

The results of a 2000 study states: “Of 734 respondents with Meniere’s disease, 59.2% reported possible airborne allergy, 40.3% had or suspected food allergies, and 37% had had confirmatory skin or in vitro tests for allergy”

How to prevent increases in Meniere’s symptoms during allergy season?

Wearing a dust mask is an obvious answer but even then it might not be enough or not practical for you.

Below you will find some of the best natural solutions to stay symptom free during this very testing time:

1. Steaming

The tried and tested old fashioned way to relieve sinuses while still keeping them moist and functioning as they  should. Use hot water in a bowl. Cover your head with a towel and bend over the hot water inhaling the steam or if easier to keep the steam constant, use a steam inhaler.  Do at least once a day during the allergy season. We have had many emails from Meniere’s sufferers telling us that this helps a great deal.

2. Look at your diet

Studies show that essential fatty acids coming from organic flax seed or hemp seed oil can help reduce seasonal allergies. Try avoiding mucous and congestion-causing foods such as dairy products, milk, processed wheat and sugar.

A healthy diet will boost your overall immunity to allergies. In fact, a scientific study done on the island of Crete found that nasal allergies were almost non-existent in this region. The reason for this is the islanders’ food intake was composed mainly of cold-pressed olive oil, nuts, fish, fruits and vegetables. This anti-oxidant packed diet was exceptionally high in grapes, tomatoes, oranges, nuts and apples, all foods known to support normal upper respiratory tract health.

According to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention in the US, 29.8 million people were diagnosed with sinusitis in 2010. For a Meniere’s sufferer sinus allergies mean a whole lot more trouble. Try this natural remedy for sinusitis.

3. Try non-toxic, organic bedding

Dr. James R. Haltom from the Mississippi Allergy and Asthma Clinic has stated that the best thing you can do for allergies is to purchase a high-quality, allergy-free cover for the mattress, box springs and pillows.  Washing your bedding once a week in very hot water can prevent build-up and help kill off dust mites.

4. Use non-toxic, natural cleaning products

Chemicals and fumes from most cleaning products from the stores have been shown to trigger allergic reactions, especially in the spring when the body’s allergic response is already heightened. Instead, opt for organic cleaning products. They are a safe alternative to cleansers that contain many chemicals that can be toxic to your health.

Studies have shown that 40% of household cleansers sold in stores have been found to be ineffective against germs.

Some ideas:

1. Simmering cloves and cinnamon as an air freshener
2. Baking soda mixed with apple cider is perfect for toilets and tubs
3. Vinegar is safe and effective on counters, floors & windows
4. Baking soda added to your rinse cycle is an effective softener
5. Lavender, thyme and tea tree oils are antiseptic and naturally antibacterial

5. Clean your living space.

If you are a constant sufferer of allergies and they increase your Meniere’s symptoms (as we know they most often do) to eliminate allergy-causing pollen and mites from the air inside your house it might be very wise to invest in a quality air purification system that has UV & negative ion filters. Carpet harbors pet dander, dust and pollen from the outdoors, which can exacerbate allergy symptoms. Surprisingly, studies show that there are actually more allergy causing dusts and allergens indoors than out. Studies also show that we spend a lot more time indoors than out.

If possible, replace carpet with non-toxic wool, non-toxic hardwood or cork flooring. Also, get rid of the clutter which collects allergens!

Use plants around the house that purify your air naturally. NASA studies recommend that you use one good-sized houseplant in a 6 to 8-inch diameter container for every 100 square feet of your home. (See video below for 8 plants to have in your house that purify the air)

Air purification house plants: video

6. Use a quality organic oregano oil

Although technically not a cure or treatment for allergies, many people do report that the oil of oregano helps them feel better when they’re dealing with the typical symptoms of allergies. Taking this supplement will also reduce the amounts of histamines found in the blood (this is the chemical that causes swelling and allergic reaction, hence anti-histamine drugs used).

7. Check your living space for mold and pollen.

Mold is a huge cause of seasonal allergies and is a known trigger for Meniere’s attacks if not an actual cause in some people. As the rains come down and the heat increases, mold begins to form in the unseen corners of our homes and offices. While there are many ways to get rid of mold, purchasing a high-quality dehumidifier will help prevent mold from forming and will help lessen allergy symptoms.

8. Brush off and/or thoroughly wash clothes after being outside.

After being outside, you are bringing pollen and other allergens into your house all over your clothes. Removing and washing them as soon as you get home will help prevent outdoor pollen from establishing itself in your furniture and bedding. Also, taking a shower as soon as get home will keep pollen from your hair out of your pillow at night

9. Cleanse your Sinuses, lungs and respiratory tract

According to the American College of Allergies, 50% of all illness, is caused or aggravated by indoor air pollution.

Most people actually spend over 90% of their time indoors. Indoor air may have toxic chemical concentrations of up to 100 times higher than outdoor air in addition to mold. All compounding the effects of allergens in pollen season. For the Meniere’s sufferer, the probability of an attack being triggered increases significantly.

Allergen levels in super-insulated homes are 200% higher than in ordinary homes. Over 1,000 types of mold and mildew have been identified in homes located in the United States. According to the EPA, SIX out of TEN homes and buildings are “sick” and hazardous to your health due to airborne pollutants.

A lung cleanse is a natural procedure designed to detoxify, cleanse and refresh the delicate respiratory linings of the bronchial passages and lungs by purging them of built up environmental toxins, harmful organisms and accumulated irritants.

10. Try using a Himalayan Crystal Salt Inhaler

The use of salt as a therapy for respiratory ailments, is nothing new. Hippocrates, the father of modern medicine, recommended salt inhalation. He inhaled steam from boiling saltwater. Unlike processed table salt, which can be the root of so many health problems, pure sea salts are rich in minerals. Pure sea salt was once so prized for its health benefits that it was used as a form of money. The term “Salt of the earth” meaning “pure and good” was first used in the  Christian bible.

Himalayan crystal salt contains 84 ional minerals and trace elements needed for optimum health.

The salt crystals rest in a chamber inside the inhaler. Breathing through the inhaler draws air across mineral-rich granules of Original Himalayan Crystal Salt. The effects can help to resolve sinus problems, sore throat, or cough. The sinuses are kept moist while allergens are extracted naturally.

Unlike steroid inhalers and pharmaceutical drugs, there are no negative effects from using a Himalayan Salt Inhaler.

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

Related articles:

Toxic Mold and Meniere’s
Meniere’s Disease – Allergies and Mold

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

Help Other Meniere’s Sufferers.

What are your experiences with Meniere’s and the allergy season. Leave your comments in the box below or email Mike at meniereshelp@gmail.com

Further reading: Prevalence of allergy in Meniere’s disease

Categories
General Information on Meniere's Disease / Syndrome Meniere's Disease Triggers & Causes

Gluten and Meniere’s Disease

Can gluten cause the symptoms of Meniere’s Disease?

Updated September 2020

Could Gluten be a cause Meniere’s symptoms? Tests in the past have shown links to Meniere’s and problems with the digestive system . The health of the gut is essential for overall health, Gut issues such as IBS have been linked to neurological diseases, autoimmune diseases and Meniere’s disease. 

In this article it suggests a connection between gluten and Meniere’s symptoms.

Extract:

Gluten and Balance

Meniere’s disease is a condition that manifests symptomatically as severe dizziness, ear pressure, ringing, and often times is associated with concomitant migraine headache. The symptoms can be debilitating and often lead to nausea, vomiting, and inability to stand or walk due to imbalance. Recent research has identified a connection between grain (specifically wheat) and Meniere’s disease. The study was published in the journal, Laryngoscope. The abstract is below:

Wheat is one of the most common food allergens found in patients with Meniere’s disease (MD). Gluten from wheat has been identified to have a etiopathogenetic role in celiac disease, IgE hypersensitivity to wheat disease, and recently to gluten sensitivity. The aim of this study was to verify the incidence of gliadin prick test response in patients affected by MD.

There were 58 adult patients with definite MD, 25 healthy volunteers, and 25 patients with grass pollen rhinoconjunctivitis tested with skin prick test to gliadin.

A total of 33 MD patients (56.9%) proved to be sensitive to gliadin, eight of whom were positive to prick test after 20 minutes, 13 after 6 hours, 11 after 12 hours, and one after 24 hours.

Gluten and Meniere’s disease – studies

Gluten sensitivity in Meniere’s disease. A cited clinical study paper on NIH

Extract:

Wheat is one of the most common food allergens found in patients with Meniere’s disease (MD). Gluten from wheat has been identified to have a etiopathogenetic role in celiac disease, IgE hypersensitivity to wheat disease, and recently to gluten sensitivity.

A total of 33 MD patients (56.9%) proved to be sensitive to gliadin, eight of whom were positive to prick test after 20 minutes.

Also on the NIH:

Meniere’s disease and gluten sensitivity: recovery after a gluten-free diet

Extract:

We report the case of a 63-year-old female with definite unilateral Meniere’s disease, osteoarthritis of the distal finger joints with mucous cysts and Heberden’s nodes, and constipation with recurrent abdominal pain whose symptoms remitted after 6months of a restrictive gluten-free diet.

The question is, is it the gluten itself; the modification of gluten or the chemicals used in modern farming processes that find their way into the wheat or grains?

We do know that we have received messages from sufferers who have symptom free after changing their diet and in some cases that meant going gluten free.

Gluten in the form we know today is a neurotoxin and of course the central nervous system has been linked to Meniere’s. Over the past 50 years, hybridization wheat grains has taken place to supposedly increase crop yield ( the results of that are highly debatable)  and lengthen ‘shelf life’.

A protein called gliadin was added to grain. It is thought that higher concentrations of this protein has made wheat less digestible, which causes an allergy or reaction. Increased antibodies to gliadin, may have a negative impact on the neural system.

Almost 50% say gluten is an issue with Meniere’s

In September 2020, the question was asked in a Meniere’s social media group, “Has anyone linked their triggers to dairy or gluten instead of the sodium?”

Of the 37 respondents, 17 suggested gluten may be an issue:

Responses:

  1. Yes all three and stress
  2. And processed foods with MSG
  3. Yes! Dairy is a HUGE trigger for me. Moderate gluten is okay but I get super fatigued and just off with lots of it. Sodium is no issue unless in ridiculous high amounts. As long as I salt to taste and cook mostly from scratch I stay in the moderate sodium range (2500mg give or take) and that works well for me
  4. I went gluten and dairy free around March this year and noticed a massive improvement, more so than just watching my salt. But like everything with this disease it’s not the final answer as I’m currently in a three week spiral having changed nothing about my routine.
  5. Gluten yes! Add sugar, salt, caffeine to that and its disaster. And dehydration
  6. I removed gluten and dairy and I have done better! They are definitely triggers for me
  7. Yes 100%
  8. Yeah I got diagnosed with celiac disease
  9. Yes.
  10. Carbs/starches/natural sugars/regular sugar. Anything that breaks down as sugar. Although, I can’t tolerate much dairy, but that’s been for the last 23 years since I had my first pregnancy.
  11. Gluten and diary set me off. I’m on a high sodium diet and it doesn’t bother me
  12. Gluten, diary, sodium all r triggers
  13. Same, I don’t eat any of those, haven’t for years
  14. I tried to stay gluten and dairy free as much as possible only because I believe Menerie’s is a autoimmune disorder and with any autoimmune you need to stay away from that stuff
  15. Sure. You can also get allergy tested through a blood test and do allergy drops which help with food related symptoms like mucus, fluid retention, and dizziness which has helped my daughter. She also eats a low sodium and low sugar diet to help reduce dizziness.
  16. Gluten is my number 1 trigger, and what I am figuring out is that it takes a LONG time to get back to normal after I’ve had an interaction, so sodium becomes a constant trigger until everything really settles down again. Once I get everything balanced out again I can eat and drink as I please, just no gluten
  17. Yea gluten really bugs me. I have tried my best to eat a gluten free diet and it helps but not enough to cure md.

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

Related articles:

Can Meniere’s Disease be caused by Autoimmunity?
Dealing with Tinnitus
Toxic Mold and Meniere’s

Help other Meniere’s sufferers. Do you have experience of Meniere’s and gluten? Tell us all about it in the comments box below or email Mike at meniereshelp@gmail.com

References/Further reading:

Gluten Sensitivity and Vertigo/Meniere’s Disease

Gluten sensitivity in Meniere’s disease

Categories
General Information on Meniere's Disease / Syndrome Meniere's Disease Triggers & Causes

Autoimmune connections to Meniere’s disease

There is plenty of evidence to suggest that there are autoimmune connections to Meniere’s disease at least for some people. Below we examine the studies and facts around autoimmunity and Meniere’s disease.

Autoimmune connections to the symptoms of Meniere’s disease

“In order to clarify whether autoimmune mechanisms form part of the etiopathogenesis of Meniere’s disease, sera and endolymphatic sac tissues from 30 patients with Meniere’s disease were analyzed according to the clinical criteria for autoimmune diseases stated by Mackay & Burnet. Several cases showed hyper gamma-globulinemia, antibody elevation to Type II collagen in the serum and endolymph, positive staining to immunoglobulins and C3 or infiltration of immuno-competent cells in the endolymphatic sac, good response to prednisolone and combination with systemic immune disorders. Other examinations showed a significant elevation of OKT 4/8 ratio and a decrease of OKT8-positive cells, and elevated levels of circulating immune complex and antiviral antibody titers. It is suggested that certain cases of Meniere’s disease may have an altered immunological background, which may be attributed to an autoimmune mechanism dependent on humoral and/or cellular responses.”

From American-Hearing,org

Hain T. 2012

What is Autoimmune Inner Ear Disease?

Autoimmune inner ear disease (AIED) is a syndrome of progressive hearing loss and/or dizziness that is caused by antibodies or immune cells which are attacking the inner ear. In most cases, there is reduction of hearing accompanied by tinnitus (ringing, hissing, roaring) which occurs over a few months. Variants are bilateral attacks of hearing loss and tinnitus that resemble Meniere’s disease, and attacks of dizziness accompanied by abnormal blood tests for antibodies. About 50% of patients with AIED have symptoms related to balance (dizziness or unsteadiness).

The immune system is complex and there are several ways that it can damage the inner ear. Both allergy and traditional autoimmune disease such as ankylosing spondylitis, systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), Sjoegren’s syndrome (dry eye syndrome), Cogan’s disease, ulcerative colitis, Wegener’s granulomatosis, rheumatoid arthritis, scleroderma, and psoriatic arthritis (Srikumar et al 2004) can cause or be associated with AIED. Another multisystem disease, Bechet’s, commonly has audiovestibular problems. Allergy is traditionally suspected to be food related, but there is presently no agreement as to the importance of food allergy.

AIED is rare, probably accounting for less than 1% of all cases of hearing impairment or dizziness (Bovo et al 2009). The precise incidence is controversial.

Read the full report here

This from Vestibular.org

What is autoimmunity? How is it connected to vestibular disorders?

Parts of the immune system, working constantly and behind the scenes, patrol the body in search of foreign invaders and relentlessly attack them once found. On rare occasions, in some people the immune system runs amok, identifies the body itself as foreign, and launches a lethal attack. This self-attack is referred to as an autoimmune reaction.

The immune system can attack just the ear, attack the ear and some other body part like the eye, or attack the entire body (including the ear). An autoimmune reaction also creates debris. Even if the ear is not being directly attacked, it could end up with debris transported from distant locations and deposited by the circulation. This debris in the ear can cause problems.

Some autoimmune disorders that can affect the ear include Cogan’s syndrome, relapsing polychondritis, polyarteritis nodosa, Wegener’s granulomatosis, systemic lupus erythematosus, ulcerative colitis, Sjogren’s syndrome, and rheumatoid arthritis.

Hearing loss has been viewed historically as the main inner ear effect of an autoimmune problem, but the vestibular system can also be attacked. Several factors determine the type of vestibular symptoms that may be experienced. Those factors include the speed with which the vestibular loss occurred, the degree of loss, whether one side or both sides are affected, and whether the damage has triggered a problem with fluctuating function (for example, if endolymphatic hydrops developed from the autoimmune reaction). The symptoms of autoimmune problems can be similar, even indistinguishable, from other vestibular disorders.
Read the whole report here

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

Related articles and posts:

Book Review: The Need for Balance; Dealing with the Causes of Meniere’s Disease
Can Meniere’s Disease be caused by Autoimmunity?

Email Mike at: meniereshelp@gmail.com

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