Hi, @A MyLupusTeam Member, I saw two of your questions regarding overeating and Prednisolone. When I finally started taking a smaller dosage, I began serving myself smaller portions of food on smaller plates. It was a little bit of mind over matter. I also switched from frequently eating sweets to adding my favorite fruits to meals and having fruits and veggies as snacks. For example, yesterday while my husband ate chips, I chose to eat carrots with a little salad dressing as a dip. You might want to consider requesting a referral to a nutritionist. They can be very helpful.
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A MyLupus...
August 17
Managing hunger on prednisolone can feel like a real battle — and it's not just willpower. The medication actually interferes with brain signals that regulate hunger and the feeling of fullness, so those intense cravings are very real and very common.
As one MyLupusTeam member put it: "When I'm on steroids, I will eat until Show Full Answer
Managing hunger on prednisolone can feel like a real battle — and it's not just willpower. The medication actually interferes with brain signals that regulate hunger and the feeling of fullness, so those intense cravings are very real and very common.
As one MyLupusTeam member put it: "When I'm on steroids, I will eat until I pop." You're definitely not alone in this. Here are some practical ways to help manage hunger and reduce weight gain while on prednisolone:
- Cut added sugar — Prednisolone affects how your body handles blood sugar. Choosing whole foods, fresh fruits, and vegetables can help curb that insatiable hunger. One MyLupusTeam member found that once they eliminated unhealthy foods, their hunger normalized entirely.
- Reduce sodium — Salt causes fluid retention and swelling. Aim for no more than 2,000mg of sodium per day. Cook at home when possible and check food labels carefully.
- Eat potassium-rich foods — Foods like bananas, melons, baked potatoes, and cooked spinach can help reduce fluid retention. Check with your doctor first, especially if you have lupus nephritis, as potassium may need to be limited.
- Fill up on protein — Protein helps you feel fuller for longer. Again, if you have lupus nephritis, don't overdo it as excess protein can strain the kidneys.
- Stay as active as you can — Even light movement helps manage weight and supports your mood. Swimming is especially gentle on joints and won't cause overheating.
- Snack on fresh or frozen fruit — The natural sweetness can satisfy cravings without the blood sugar spike of candy or desserts. If hunger or weight changes are seriously affecting your quality of life, talk to your doctor. They may be able to adjust your dosage or refer you to a registered dietitian who can help build a meal plan that works for you.
August 17
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