Vitamin D deficiency and Meniere’s Disease

Vitamin D and Meniere’s Disease

There is a connection between vitamin D deficiency and MD symptoms. In one study, the researchers noticed that people newly diagnosed with MD were less likely to need intratympanic gentamicin treatment if they corrected their vitamin D deficiency. It may be especially beneficial for MD patients whose symptoms are caused by a local post-viral autoimmune reaction. This makes perfect sense since vitamin D can modulate innate and adaptive immune responses. [1][2]

The issue is prevalent in our society- about 42% of the US population is vitamin D deficient.[3] It may be especially common for people with autoimmune disorders.[4]

What is the best source of vitamin D?

It is called ‘the sunshine vitamin’ for a reason. Sun exposure is the best source of this nutrient. According to one study, ‘In summer and spring, with 22% of uncovered skin, 1000 IU vitamin D doses are synthesized in 10-15 min sun exposure for adults.’ [5] If it’s hard for you to do that, whether because of time restrictions, your physical ability to go outside, or climate, consider supplementing.

Dietary sources of vitamin D include cod liver oil, trout, sockeye salmon, mushrooms, milk (if tolerating dairy and not during the elimination phase), and soy and almond milk fortified with vitamin D.

Other benefits of connecting with nature

Aside from vitamin D, spending time outside has multiple other benefits. Numerous studies confirmed the positive influence being in nature has on our mental health- including reduced anxiety and depression symptoms, better mood, improved cognitive functioning, and emotional well-being.[6]

If a fear of getting a vertigo attack or a drop attack when outside of the house makes you nervous, take it one step at a time. Maybe you can put a chair right outside your front door or spend some time on a balcony before you are ready to take a short walk around the block.

If your symptoms are severe, consider opening the windows, for now, to let some fresh air in. In one study, even looking at pictures of nature helped people feel more relaxed and increased their attention. [7] Find your way of connecting with nature, and once you get more comfortable, consider spending more time outside.