Sugar Cravings

[Sober40yrs]

Hi everybody. Just wondering about this incredible craving for sweets? I am type 2 diabetes but was able to control my sugar intake prior to Prednisone but not so much when on this medication.

[Hidden]

Join the club . One side effects of the drug which is why most gain weight. I suppose you have tried fruit instead. A full time battle you have my sympathy.

[Lolabridge]

It’s a commonly experienced problem I think. I coped with the cravings by eating fruit, apples and pears in particular which are so good for us, and also by having a herbal/fruit tea. Don’t forget you could have a little dark chocolate (>70% cocoa) as it’s medicinal!!

[medway-lady in reply to Lolabridge]

Correction! it is a widely known fact that all chocolate has a medicinal function. Like gin does it can be a natural antiseptic, anti inflammatory or painkiller. Or at least eat enough or drink enough and it appears that way to me. lol xxxx

[Hidden in reply to Lolabridge]

In my world ‘chocolate’ is it’s own food group 😋.

[Mandalou]

Hi there,

If your Diabetes is usually well controlled by diet and or meds like Metformin and Gliclazide and you are testing and recording your Mmol and the Prednisalone you are taking hasn’t altered your readings and you are not super Hyperglycaemic then things are ok.

A fine balance has to be established between medications.

This needs to be discussed with your Primary health care provider.

Oral steroids can impede that balance between your liver and your Pancreas. Ultimately affecting your natural Insulin production.

Please don’t dismiss your sugar cravings but talk about them with a doctor as it’s vitally important to control your sugar intake, while balancing your already diagnosed diabetes and taking Pred.

Good luck, I really understand how hard it is.

Mx

[oldtimer2]

I find that steroids seem to remove my 'off' switch for food. I eat and just don't feel full. It isn't just sweet stuff but anything in the cupboard or the fridge.... I have to really limit the amount I put out to eat and stick to just that and not snack at all.

[Runrig01]

Unfortunately steroids reduce the action of insulin, known as insulin resistance. This results in glucose being released from the liver resulting in higher blood sugars. Given your already diabetic you need to be careful. It’s generally advised to reduce your carbohydrates when taking steroids. Instead of sweets, try some nuts or a protein bar. Berries are good as they are power in sugar than many other fruits. You need to be careful with fruits though as they still contain sugar. Carrots and Humous or even cheese. I do sympathise, I’m on steroids for life as I developed adrenal insufficiency from using steroids for GCA. I was switched from prednisolone to hydrocortisone when diagnosed AI and over 8 months gained 35lb. I switched back to prednisolone and weight stabilised but I still struggle to try and lose those lbs. The other suggestion I was given was to drink a glass of water when I got urges to dampen the feeling of hunger, or go out for a walk and take your mind off the food. Good luck