Vertigo is the sensation that you or your surroundings are moving or spinning. It derives from problems in your vestibular system, which helps you maintain balance, process information and move properly. Between 2001 and 2004, 34.5 percent of Americans aged 40 and older experienced vestibular dysfunction, according to the Vestibular Disorders Association. In addition to treatment for any underlying condition, dietary changes may help manage your symptoms. Before altering your diet, seek guidance from a qualified professional.
Function
Many people with vertigo-associated Meniere's disease -- an inner-ear disorder -- or migraines find dietary changes helpful, according to the VDA. Various foods and eating habits can improve fluid balance in your inner-ears and body, leading to reduced symptoms. Consuming other foods, particularly in excess, can have the opposite effect.
Guidelines
For reduced vestibular problems, the VDA suggests distributing your foods and fluids evenly throughout each day. Eating five or six mini-meals, for example, is preferable to two or three large meals. Your diet should limit foods high in sugar or sodium, which can offset your fluid levels, and emphasize complex carbohydrate sources and fluids. Caffeinated and alcoholic beverages can also worsen vertigo. If you're prone to migraines, avoid potential migraine triggers as well.
Problem Foods
Foods particularly high in sugar include candy, milk chocolate, jelly, jam, pancake syrup, frozen desserts, sugary cereals and conventional cakes, cookies, pies and pastries. To lower your sodium intake, limit processed foods, such as canned foods, frozen entrees, fast food and snack chips. These foods account for most of Americans' sodium intake, according to MayoClinic.com. Potential migraine triggers include smoked and cured meats, aged cheeses, chocolate, nuts, onions, fermented foods and some fruits, including bananas, citrus fruits and avocados.
Optimum Foods
Nutritious complex carbohydrate-rich foods include vegetables, fruits and whole grains, like barley, brown rice, oatmeal and air-popped popcorn. To ensure low sodium content of your grains, use low-sodium seasonings, such as natural herbs, instead of salt. Halibut, nuts, soybeans and oatmeal are valuable sources of magnesium -- a mineral that may help reduce the frequency of migraine flareups, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. Valuable fluid sources include fresh fruits and vegetables, low-sodium broth, low-fat cow, rice or soy milk, caffeine-free teas and water.
