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Avoid weight gain while taking corticosteroids

Cortisone is a plant hormone similar to a hormone produced by the adrenal gland in the human body. Cortisol. Steroid drugs are available in several forms, including what may be given as a topical treatment to affect a particular position (eg, eye or ear drops, skin creams, steroid injections given in joints) Corticosteroids), which are characterized by its effect confined to the intended organ without affecting the rest of the body and therefore accompanied by fewer side effects.

These are given as a treatment to affect the different parts of the body such as oral pills, intravenous injections, or intramuscular injections, which are transmitted through the bloodstream to the body's various sites and are usually used if the condition calls for more intensive treatment Or more widespread or in case of failure of topical treatments.

The weight gain associated with cortisone abuse is due to the amount of the drug used and the duration of the drug
According to the University of California San Francisco Medical Center, cortisone does not only increase weight but also redistributes fat in the body, which means fat accumulation in unusual areas, such as the back or the nape of the neck. Cortisone also increases appetite, and the body retains fluids when cortisone is used, causing water retention and swelling.


How to avoid weight gain while taking cortisone
To reduce the weight gain associated with cortisone use, it helps to reduce the intake of carbohydrates such as sugars and bread, and follow the following diet tips:

Avoid foods rich in salt, such as fast foods, potato chips, canned foods and frozen foods, as they cause water retention in the body, indicating that potassium can be increased to combat water retention. Potassium is available in grilled potatoes, bananas, milk, oranges and yoghurt.

Eat small meals throughout the day, which helps to reduce frequent hunger, the condition that accompany cortisone abusers. As small meals help, keep your blood sugar levels steady, taking care to incorporate fiber into each meal.

Focus on protein-free fat, to help control appetite, during treatment. In a study published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition in 2008, individuals who followed a diet with protein in 34 percent of their calories lost weight and did not feel hungry, compared with individuals who followed a high-carbohydrate diet. In this context, it is recommended to choose protein, poultry skinned fish, oysters, low-fat dairy products, pulses, nuts and seeds.

Keep your blood sugar constant, by eating the largest portion of carbohydrates, daily, from whole grains, including brown rice, quinoa, vegetables and whole grain products, such as whole wheat bread. Conversely, it is important to avoid foods made from refined carbohydrates, regular pasta, rice and white bread, as well as reduce the intake of sweets, snacks, honey and jelly.

Drink enough water, which helps reduce or decrease the high levels of sodium and potassium.