Nutritional Strategies and Dietary Patterns in Ménière's Disease and Tinnitus: A Scoping Review of the Available Evidence.

BACKGROUND

Ménière's disease (MD) and tinnitus are common otological conditions that substantially impair quality of life. Although their pathophysiology remains incompletely understood, nutritional factors have been proposed to influence inner-ear microcirculation, water-electrolyte balance, oxidative stress and metabolic regulation. The objective of this scoping review was to comprehensively map the extent, nature and characteristics of existing research on nutritional strategies and dietary patterns applied in Ménière's disease and tinnitus, and to clarify the mechanisms and clinical outcomes reported across studies.

METHODS

The review followed the Joanna Briggs Institute methodology and PRISMA-ScR guidelines. A comprehensive search of PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, EBSCO, Cochrane Library and Google Scholar (2-12 March 2026) was conducted using the Population-Concept-Context model. Eligible studies included full-text human research (observational or interventional) and reviews published in English that examined dietary strategies in MD or tinnitus.

RESULTS

Of 273 records identified, 13 studies met inclusion criteria (6 on MD, 7 on tinnitus). Reported interventions included sodium reduction, adequate hydration, caffeine and alcohol modification, glycaemic stabilization, weight reduction, anti-inflammatory dietary patterns, and Mediterranean or DASH-style diets. Findings suggest potential symptom improvement in some patients.

CONCLUSIONS

Available evidence indicates that nutritional interventions may serve as a valuable adjunct in the management of MD and tinnitus; however, their effectiveness has not been conclusively demonstrated. Well-designed, adequately powered randomised trials are still required to establish precise, evidence-based clinical guidelines.