Tinnitus, or tinnitus, is a chronic hearing condition that affects approximately 740 million people worldwide, where the individual constantly hears disturbing sounds in one or both ears. It is often referred to as "ringing in the ears," according to the website Medical News Today.
There are several underlying causes of tinnitus, such as hearing loss, ear infections, thyroid problems, and others. To date, there is no cure for tinnitus. However, previous studies suggest ways to reduce the risk of this condition, such as protecting your hearing from loud noises (e.g., music at concerts or when using power tools), managing stress, getting enough sleep, and maintaining healthy blood pressure and cholesterol levels.
Some studies have also examined the role of a healthy diet in reducing the risk of tinnitus. For example, a study published in February 2020 found that increased vitamin B12 intake and a high-protein diet helped reduce the risk of developing tinnitus.
Another study, published in December 2024, showed that tuna and seafood consumption was associated with a reduced risk of chronic tinnitus in women.
Recently, a study published in the journal BMJ Open found that increasing the levels of fruit, fiber, dairy, and caffeine in the diet could help reduce the risk of tinnitus.
Consumption of fruits, dietary fiber, dairy products, and caffeine has been shown to reduce risk. In this study, researchers analyzed medical data from eight studies on tinnitus and diet in adults aged 8 years and older, including approximately 18 participants.
The researchers looked at 15 specific dietary factors: caffeine, carbohydrates, dairy, eggs, fats, fiber, fish, fruits, margarine, meats, protein, sugars, varied diets, vegetables, and water.
At the end of the study, researchers found that participants who consumed fruit, fiber, dairy, and caffeine were the least likely to experience tinnitus.
Fruits reduced the risk by 35%, dairy products by 17%, caffeine by 10%, and dietary fiber by 8%. However, they found no link between the other eleven dietary factors studied and the risk of tinnitus.
Rachel Artsma, an audiologist, commented: "I found the study interesting because it reinforces the idea that lifestyle factors may play a role in the risk of tinnitus." She added: "Given how difficult tinnitus can be for patients, it is encouraging to see evidence suggesting that certain dietary habits, such as eating more fruit, fiber, dairy, and even caffeine, may reduce its frequency."
She continued: “Tinnitus significantly affects quality of life, often leading to anxiety, depression, and sleep disturbances… While medical treatments can help manage symptoms, prevention is always best. If we can identify modifiable risk factors, such as diet, this gives patients more control over their health.”
