Can VLCD (Very Low-Calorie Diet) Cause Tinnitus or Make It Worse?

Hi everyone,

I am participating in an 800-calorie diet to reverse my type 2 diabetes. This diet involves total meal replacement, consisting of four shakes or soups a day for 12 weeks before transitioning to a higher calorie intake.

I've been on the diet for nearly three weeks, losing approximately 5% of my starting body weight (8 kg).

I've developed tinnitus over the last 14 days, which has become louder in the past couple of days.

I visited my health center, where they checked my ears and confirmed there was no earwax buildup. They referred me to an audiologist, whom I will see in a few weeks.

I am wondering if there could be a link between the diet and my tinnitus. Has anyone else experienced this?

To clarify, I have noticed some hearing loss over the past few months, which I've read could be related to tinnitus.

Thank you.

 

Just out of curiosity:

What, if any, medication are you taking to supplement this diet change? Many medications are known to be ototoxic and could possibly be the culprit.