Cortisone medication is a type of steroid commonly used to treat a wide range of conditions, including allergies, asthma, arthritis, and autoimmune diseases.

These medications can have various side effects, and changes in appetite and weight gain are among the most common ones. Therefore, it’s important to maintain a healthy diet while taking cortisone medication to minimize adverse effects and promote overall wellbeing. This article will provide some guidelines on how to eat while on cortisone medication.

1. Monitor your caloric intake

Cortisone medication can increase your appetite and cause you to crave high-calorie foods. However, consuming too many calories can lead to weight gain, which can be harmful to your health and exacerbate some medical conditions.

Therefore, it’s essential to monitor your caloric intake and strive for a balanced diet. A general rule of thumb for healthy adults is to consume between 1,500 and 2,000 calories per day, depending on age, sex, and physical activity level. However, your healthcare provider may recommend different targets based on your individual needs.

2. Emphasize nutrient-dense foods

Nutrient-dense foods are those that provide a high amount of nutrients per calorie. These include fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats.

Consuming a diet rich in nutrient-dense foods can help you obtain all the vitamins, minerals, and other essential nutrients your body needs to function properly. Moreover, these foods are typically low in calories and high in fiber, which can help you feel full and satisfied without overeating.

3. Limit sugar and refined carbohydrates

Sugar and refined carbohydrates are calorie-dense and nutrient-poor foods that can contribute to weight gain, inflammation, and various health problems. Therefore, it’s advisable to limit your intake of these foods while on cortisone medication.

Examples of sugary and refined carbohydrate foods include candy, cakes, cookies, white bread, pasta, and rice. Instead, opt for whole grains, fruits, and vegetables, which are rich in fiber and other beneficial nutrients.

4. Drink plenty of water

Drinking plenty of water is essential for overall health and wellness, especially when taking cortisone medication. Cortisone medication can cause fluid retention, which can lead to bloating and swelling in various parts of the body.

Therefore, it’s important to stay well-hydrated to maintain proper fluid balance and support the body’s natural detoxification process. A general recommendation is to drink at least eight glasses of water per day, and more if you exercise or live in a hot climate. However, your water needs may vary depending on individual factors.

5. Consider probiotics and digestive enzymes

Cortisone medication can disrupt the natural balance of gut bacteria and cause digestive problems, such as constipation, diarrhea, and bloating.

Therefore, taking probiotics and digestive enzymes may help alleviate these symptoms and promote healthy digestion. Probiotics are live bacteria that reside in the gut and provide numerous health benefits, including improved immune function, reduced inflammation, and better digestion.

Digestive enzymes are proteins that help break down food into smaller molecules for better absorption and utilization.

6. Avoid alcohol and caffeine

Alcohol and caffeine are diuretics that can exacerbate fluid retention and dehydration, especially when taking cortisone medication. Therefore, it’s advisable to limit your intake of these substances while on cortisone medication.

Moreover, alcohol and caffeine can interfere with sleep quality and lead to other health problems, such as liver disease, heart disease, and anxiety. Instead, opt for non-caffeinated herbal teas, water, or natural juices.

7. Discuss your diet with your healthcare provider

It’s essential to discuss your diet with your healthcare provider when taking cortisone medication.

Your healthcare provider can help you determine your caloric and nutrient needs based on your medical history, medications, and current health status. Moreover, your healthcare provider can advise you on any dietary restrictions or recommendations based on your underlying condition and medication use.

Therefore, don’t hesitate to ask your healthcare provider any questions or concerns you may have about your diet.

Conclusion

Eating a healthy and balanced diet is essential for overall health and wellbeing, especially when taking cortisone medication.

By monitoring your caloric intake, emphasizing nutrient-dense foods, limiting sugar and refined carbohydrates, drinking plenty of water, considering probiotics and digestive enzymes, avoiding alcohol and caffeine, and discussing your diet with your healthcare provider, you can minimize adverse effects and promote optimal health.