Dizziness
A sensation of lightheadedness, unsteadiness, or spinning (vertigo) that may be brief or persistent.
⚠ Seek medical attention if:
Dizziness with chest pain, slurred speech, facial drooping, limb weakness, sudden severe headache, or fainting
Lifestyle factors
Dehydration, standing up too quickly, skipping meals, poor sleep, excess alcohol or caffeine
Nutritional factors
Iron deficiency anaemia, low blood sugar, inadequate hydration, vitamin B12 deficiency affecting nerve and balance function
Possible medical causes
Anaemia, low blood pressure, inner ear disorders (BPPV, labyrinthitis), medication side effects, cardiac arrhythmia
Next steps
Call emergency services immediately if dizziness occurs with neurological symptoms or fainting, as these can signal a stroke; GP review for recurrent or persistent dizziness
Related nutrients (4)
Iron deficiency anaemia is a common cause of dizziness and fatigue
Food sources: Spinach (cooked) (6.4 mg iron per cup cooked), Lentils (cooked) (6.6 mg iron per cup cooked), Coconut (~1 mg per 30g), Sesame seeds (~4.3 mg per 30g), Chia seeds (~2.2 mg per 30g), Butternut (~1.2 mg per 30g), Kidney beans (~5.2 mg per cup cooked), Peppermint leaf (~a small amount per serving), Garbanzo beans (chickpeas) (~4.7 mg per cup cooked), Thyme leaf (~0.5 mg per 3g), Red beans (adzuki) (~4.6 mg per cup cooked), Mint leaf (~0.5 mg per 10g), Sauerkraut (~0.7 mg per 50g), Seaweed (~2 mg per 10g dried), Edamame (~3.5 mg per cup cooked)
B12 deficiency can affect nerve function and balance, contributing to dizziness
Food sources: Eggs (whole, boiled) (2.6 mcg B12 per 2 eggs)
Low potassium can affect heart rhythm and blood pressure regulation, contributing to dizziness
Food sources: Spinach (cooked) (~838 mg potassium per cup cooked), Lentils (cooked) (~731 mg potassium per cup cooked), Pistachios (~290 mg per 30g), Chestnuts (~180 mg per 30g), Lotus seeds (~400 mg per 30g), Ginkgo nuts (~150 mg per 30g), Red beans (adzuki) (~1200 mg per cup cooked), Avocado (~485 mg per 100g (about half an avocado)), Onion (~120 mg per 80g), Kidney beans (~717 mg per cup cooked), Sweet potatoes (~440 mg per medium), Purple sweet potatoes (~450 mg per medium), Potatoes (~610 mg per medium potato), Yam (~670 mg per 100g cooked), Edamame (~675 mg per cup cooked), Cassava (~270 mg per 100g cooked)
Very low sodium can cause dizziness and confusion, usually after heavy fluid loss
Supplement categories (2)
Corrects anaemia-related dizziness once confirmed by blood tests
Cautions: Do not supplement without testing; haemochromatosis contraindication; keep away from children
Supports rehydration when dizziness is linked to fluid or electrolyte loss
Cautions: Caution in kidney disease or conditions requiring fluid or sodium restriction
Related symptoms
Educational information only — not medical advice. This content does not diagnose, treat, or replace consultation with a qualified healthcare professional. Always seek professional medical advice for symptoms, supplement use, or health concerns.