Honestly, I don't think it's a way around it. I didn't eat much when I was on high doses of prednisone, but I still had the chubby face and all. My doctor said it increases the appetite, but I think it something in the medicine that contributes to weight gain too, because even before I was on prednisone, I was a little thicker than I am now, but I didn't have the prednisone face.

Like yourself, I was on 60 for over two years so I really feel for you. Pure Barre or Pilates or a low key Ballet class works the muscles and develops core strength. While on that high dose, I did ballet every day and miraculously gained very little weight. Since then I have not done ballet if on Prednisone and have the same weight gain issue each time. Very frustrating. If your kidneys aren't an issue, also up you plant based protein intake and make sure you have protein through out the day. Stay encouraged- you can do this!

When I take a higher dose of prednisone, I cut the carbs and do more of an Atkins diet. I do follow Weight Watchers, but I just am more vigilant. If it's a carb, it has to have nutritional value like fruits and veggies. I was able to keep my A1C down and my weight during the last huge flare that way. I also try to move as much as possible, even if it is just parking a little farther from somewhere I need to go. Good luck.

Weight gain is an overwhelmingly common side effect of Prednisone, especially at higher doses. I've been on varying doses of Prednisone for a little over a year now consistently, anywhere from 2.5 mg to 80 mg, and I haven't gained a single pound. Actually, recently I've lost some weight.
The most important thing to do is to count your calories. Yes, it is tedious, but it works. Try to cut down on carb-loaded foods, those just spike cravings even more.
If you do those things and you still can't drop the weight, it might just be the way your body reacts to Prednisone. Once you get off of it, the weight will come right off. It's also important to remember that Presnidone can cause water retention, so the number on the scale going up is probably attributed to that, especially if it is a fast increase in weight.

@A MyLupusTeam Member, what you described is plant based protein which is so much easier for your body to digest than animal protein. It's also hard to overload protein with the sources you described bc they are less protein and calorie dense. Make sure you're eating magnesium rich nuts to help your body manage fluid.You can do this, Bethany! Stay encouraged, my friend!

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