Vertigo is a condition that might leave you feeling discombobulated and nauseous. In fact, it is a syndrome that causes episodes of disequilibrium or even vomiting, according to Dr. Dean Metcalfe in the book, "Food Allergy: Adverse Reactions to Foods and Food Additives." The exact causes of vertigo are not known, but researchers have postulated that certain foods, or lack of foods, might help cause the condition, notes Metcalfe. This might be a deficiency in a particular vitamin, impact on blood sugar or even food allergies. Do not consume alcohol or caffeine if you are experiencing vertigo, as they might make the condition worse. See your doctor if your vertigo continues.
B-Complex Vitamins
If you suffer from vertigo, eating foods high in B-complex vitamins might be helpful. John Kirschmann notes in his book, "Nutrition Almanac," that a deficiency in vitamin B6 or niacin might cause dizziness. Therefore, eating foods such as bananas, oats, potatoes, lentils, turkey, liver and brewer's yeast might be beneficial during a vertigo attack. Kirschmann notes that adding salt with B-vitamins might ease vertigo symptoms even more in hot climates.
Complex Carbohydrates
Some of the time, vertigo might be connected to low blood sugar. When this is the case, it is important to eat foods that help stabilize your blood sugar, such as complex carbs, notes chef Rosa Ross in her book, "Chinese Healing Foods." Whole grains, including brown rice and quinoa, and vegetables such as broccoli, spinach and carrots, will keep a steady level of glucose in your blood. Eating small meals throughout the day will also help with maintaining blood sugar levels.
Pineapple
Pineapple might also be helpful for vertigo, according to naturopath Janet Zand, in her book, "Smart Medicine for Healthier Living." This is due to the fact that pineapple is high in bromelain, a protein-digesting enzyme, which can help with inflammation in the inner ear sometimes linked to vertigo. Bromelain is found in both the stem of the fruit, and also in the juice. If necessary, it can also be taken in supplemental form.
Magnesium
Magnesium deficiency can sometimes cause symptoms of vertigo, notes Zand, and eating foods that contain magnesium might help with the condition. Foods high in magnesium include almonds, wheat bran, black-eyed peas and halibut. Avocado, lentils, raisins and milk also contain relatively high amounts of magnesium. Check with your doctor to determine if magnesium deficiency might be causing your dizziness, as a supplement might be necessary.
References
- "Nutrition Almanac"; John Kirschmann; 2006
- "Chinese Healing Foods"; Rosa Ross; 1998
- "Smart Medicine for Healthier Living"; Janet Zand; 1999
- "Food Allergy: Adverse Reactions to Foods and Food Additives"; Dr. Dean Metcalfe; 2009
