It is possible to gain weight while taking prednisone. Weight gain is a side effect that generally occurs when the medication is taken for long periods of time. If you are taking prednisone and weight gain occurs, you can try limiting your alcohol intake, exercising regularly, and eating a heart-healthy diet, among other things.
Weight gain is a common symptom of taking prednisone long-term. Some people gain weight all over their body, although prednisone often causes a specific distribution of fat deposits. Often, people develop a roundness of the face or a fat deposit on the back of the neck (a "buffalo hump"). Some people gain fat around the middle.
Suggestions for Prednisone and Weight Gain
If you are noticing unexplained weight gain with prednisone, there are some things that you can do. Some suggestions include:
Eating a heart-healthy diet. This diet should include heart-healthy foods, such as:
Lots of fruits, vegetables, grains, and fat-free or low-fat milk and milk products
Lean meats, poultry, fish, beans, eggs, and nuts.
Limiting foods with saturated fats, trans fats, cholesterol, sodium (salt), and added sugars.
Getting regular physical activity for at least 30 minutes a day on most days of the week.
Limiting your intake of alcohol.
(Click BMI Calculator to see if your weight is within a healthy range.)
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