Prednisone, an anti-inflammatory medication, is used to treat conditions such as lupus, arthritis and multiple sclerosis. Weight gain, caused by fluid retention and an increased appetite, is one of the primary side effects of prednisone. If you’re trying to lose weight while taking this drug, you may need to change certain aspects of your diet. Ask your doctor or a dietitian for help developing a meal plan that can help you avoid weight gain.
Limit Sodium
The more sodium you eat, the more fluid you’ll retain while you’re using prednisone. The University of San Francisco Medical Center recommends limiting yourself to 2,000 milligrams of sodium daily to help keep your weight under control. Avoid processed, canned and prepackaged foods in favor or fresh or frozen produce, low- or nonfat dairy products, whole grains and fresh, lean meat, seafood and poultry. If you do buy convenience items, look for low- or no-sodium varieties. Do not use high-sodium seasoning mixes when cooking or add extra salt at the table.
Eat More Potassium
A diet lacking adequate potassium can worsen the fluid retention caused by prednisone. Adults should aim for at least 4,700 milligrams of potassium a day by regularly including a variety of potassium-rich foods – vegetables, fruits and dairy products, such as yogurt or milk. A medium-sized baked potato with its skin intact supplies 926 milligrams of potassium, or almost 20 percent of the required daily intake. Dried plums, spinach, raisins, bananas and winter squash are also high-potassium choices