Inflammatory conditions can trigger weight problems in some
people. Corticosteroids are often used to reduce inflammation. But
they too can cause additional weight problems. It is not uncommon for
individuals who take Prednisone to experience sudden weight gain.
Fortunately, there are ways you can manage your weight so you can
continue to take this highly effective medication.
Predisposition to Weight Gain
If you already have a weight problem or tend to gain weight when
taking corticosteroids, you should try to mitigate this outcome before
beginning treatment using this medication. Individuals who already
struggle with weight issues are more likely to gain weight.
Focus on Nutritional Foods
You may need to reduce, or give up entirely, your desire for
unhealthy foods. These are high-fat foods and foods loaded with sugar
or sodium. Limit your intake of simple carbohydrates. Fried foods are
another culprit than can cause you to gain weight. Eating out is not
recommended because it becomes more difficult to manage portion size.
Eat foods that have inflammation-reducing properties. Avoid consuming
alcoholic beverages as alcohol has known properties that naturally
contribute to weight gain.
Manage Appetite
You may experience an increase in appetite while taking this drug.
You will want to eat more but this will only add to the problem.
Sipping water can help reduce feeling hungry. Eating several small
meals throughout the day will stop you from eating unhealthy snacks
between major meals. And complex carbohydrates can help you feel less
hungry.
Establish Exercise Routine
The best way, by far, to lose weight is to exercise. The reason for
this is that only with exercise can you keep the weight off. You can
exercise daily or several times a week. Find something that is fun so
you have a better chance of sticking with it. You need at least 30
minutes of rigorous cardio-vascular exercise to actually lose weight.
You may even find that exercise can be a natural appetite suppressant.
Because fat can accumulate in the body with the long-term use of
Prednisone, it is important to get your weight under control before
taking the medication if at all possible. This particular medication
causes your body to absorb too much sodium. It can also result in
potassium loss. You end up gaining weight because of water and fluid
retention. Even hf you experience weight gain, you should never
suddenly stop taking Prednisone without first consulting your doctor.
