A recent analysis published in the open-access journal BMJ Open suggests that increased consumption of fruit, dietary fiber, dairy products, and caffeine may be associated with a reduced risk of tinnitus, which is the perception of sound in the ears without an external source. While the researchers caution that their findings cannot establish a direct causal relationship, they point to the potential protective effects of these diets on blood vessels and nerves, as well as their anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
Tinnitus affects approximately 14% of adults worldwide and is linked to various negative psychological outcomes such as depression, anxiety, and stress. While there is no cure for tinnitus, treatments such as counseling, behavioral therapy, medications, and hearing aids can help manage symptoms.
Diet plays a significant role in tinnitus, with high-quality nutrients potentially improving hearing by enhancing blood flow to the inner ear and reducing oxidative damage and inflammation. However, previous studies have yielded conflicting results, making it challenging to pinpoint specific foods that worsen or alleviate symptoms.
To delve deeper into the relationship between diet and tinnitus, researchers examined eight observational studies involving over 300,000 individuals to assess the impact of various dietary factors. They found that increased consumption of fruit, dietary fiber, dairy products, and caffeine was associated with a lower occurrence of tinnitus, with reductions ranging from 9% to 35%.
While no significant associations were found for other dietary factors, the authors highlight the need for additional large-scale studies to confirm these findings and explore the underlying mechanisms further. They emphasize that the protective effects of these diets on blood vessels and nerves, along with their anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, may play a crucial role in reducing the risk of tinnitus.
In conclusion, the study underscores the potential benefits of incorporating fruit, dietary fiber, dairy products, and caffeine into one’s diet to potentially lower the risk of developing tinnitus. Further research is warranted to validate these findings and shed light on the intricate relationship between dietary intake and tinnitus.
For more information, the study titled “Association of 15 common dietary factors with tinnitus: a systematic review and meta-analysis of observational studies” can be accessed in BMJ Open.
