Reducing salt intake is widely recommended for many people with vertigo, as it is thought to reduce endolymphatic pressure.
Reducing salt intake may help reduce the frequency and severity of Meniere’s attacks. There is a strong belief that Meniere’s disease is related to excess pressure of sodium-rich fluid (called endolymph) in the inner ear.
It is thought that reducing salt in your diet may help, as it may reduce the pressure of that fluid. The build-up of this fluid is what causes the feeling of fullness in the ear before an attack. The sudden release of that pressure, along with the subsequent turbulence, is what causes the sudden vertigo you experience and the sudden changes in hearing that occur.
You should consult your doctor before starting a low-sodium diet, especially if you are taking medication for any other medical condition or if you are pregnant. Many patients will know from experience that if they eat a particularly salty meal, they will start to have attacks within a few hours.
How to limit salt intake when eating?
There are many strategies that can be used to help reduce the amount of salt in your diet. Note that some people find it difficult to adapt to a low-sodium diet because salt is often used to make food taste better. One strategy is to gradually reduce salt if you are having difficulty adjusting to your diet
Strategies for reducing salt at home
When cooking at home, it is important to be selective about ingredients, including seasonings, and look for hidden sources of sodium in packaged, canned, and jarred foods. For those accustomed to using salt in cooking and at the table, foods may initially taste bland when you reduce the sodium content. However, adding herbs and spices can enhance flavor and make meals more enjoyable.
Some strategies for reducing salt intake at home include:
- Rinse canned vegetables and beans to reduce sodium.
- Cook foods without added salt, such as not adding salt to pasta water.
- Use spices and herbs to flavor foods. (Note: Some spice blends may contain added sodium.)
- If you have difficulty following a low-sodium diet, you can gradually reduce the amount of salt you use when cooking or eating.
- Commercial salt substitutes may be an option for some people to reduce their salt intake. These substitutes sometimes contain a blend of herbs and spices. However, some salt substitutes can taste bitter and often contain potassium, which can complicate certain medical conditions, especially those involving the kidneys. Therefore, these products should not be used without first consulting a doctor.
Strategies for reducing salt when eating out
- In restaurants, fried foods are often salty, as are combination dishes such as soups or pasta with sauces. To reduce your salt intake, consider:
- Choosing simple menu items, such as grilled or roasted dishes, baked potatoes, and salads with vinegar dressings.
- Ask for sauces, dips, and dressings, or prepare dishes without added salt.
- Substitute French fries or other salty dishes for salads or fresh fruit.
- Do not ask for added salt when cooking vegetable side dishes.
Be careful with words like “smoked” or “blackened,” as these foods are often high in salt. Many major restaurant chains provide nutritional information online; checking this information before you go can help you make better choices.
