Weight gain and loss

[jwichmann]

I’ve been on prednisone for 1 1/2 years. . Started at 20 mg now down to 6.5 mg. I gained 12 pounds and wondering when or if weight loss ever kicks in?

[SnazzyD]

Some have a corresponding loss as dose reduces but some need to cut carbs heavily in the diet. At the very least cut out refined carbs. I had to cut mine hard and even after Pred stopped I had to be careful. We’re all different but I wouldn’t wait from the revolution if you’ve put weight on.

[Angelsmummy]

Morning j,I put on nearly 2 stone over a period of 18 months.As I got lower,say for example about 6 mg,I started to lose it,I was having a very healthy diet during this weight loss but still allowed myself treats if I wanted them but didn’t go overboard.Nice low fat,low sugar dessert pots from Aldi,walnuts,and some good quality dark chocolate to satisfy my sweet tooth.Back on a higher dose now so am trying desperately to control my “ munchies” again.Think the weight gain varies from person to person,just a case of being careful I think!Good luck !xx💐😜

[jwichmann in reply to Angelsmummy]

Thanks! Encouraging

[PMRpro Ambassador]

You might lose weight as the dose falls but some don't lose an ounce until off pred altogether. And for some - it requires a concerted effort to lose weight, so don;t assume it will happen without you taking action.

Cutting carbs drastically - especially processed and refined carbs and added sugar is the best approach and has worked for a lot of us. Healthy diet alone often isn't enough - too much fruit can spoil the best intentions with a low carb diet.

[jwichmann in reply to PMRpro]

Thank you!

[agingfeminist]

I found the only thing to do was to cut carbs and then cut them again. No bread, cakes, biscuits, pasta, rice, crackers, potatoes. No sugar (also avoid sweetners). Berries are the best fruit. Throw out the carbs then you won't be tempted. You lose a lot of the addictions (sugar in particular) in about 3 weeks. good luck.

[jwichmann in reply to agingfeminist]

Thanks! I think I need to throw out wine too!

[Angelsmummy in reply to jwichmann]

A little of what you fancy does you good.Going through enough without have the odd glass to treat yourself eh?xx😢💐😜🥂

[jwichmann in reply to Angelsmummy]

😂 I hear you! Thanks!

[Pixix]

I had to take steroids quite a lot before PMR, & was really sick when I took them, so no exercise, in bed a lot etc. I put on two stone during that period, & another stone while I’ve had PMR (for five years now). However, for the past two years I haven’t put on a single pound…since I was on about 5 - 7mg pred. But I can’t lose it. Cut carbs, cut calories, keto diet (lost a stone, but then it crept back on). Hoping that when I finally kick them into touch, a diet will work!

[jwichmann in reply to Pixix]

Interesting! Thanks

[Ozziedays]

Hello, I put on about 10kg having started pred at 25mg. I got to zero pred just under two years later and I remember my weight stabilising at one point (not increasing any more), probably around the 6-7mg level, but noticeable loss was only after I’d got to zero. I didn’t follow any particular diet, just tried to eat more healthily (but didn’t deny myself treats), and got back to my pre pred weight after about a year.

[jwichmann in reply to Ozziedays]

I’m guessing that’s my path too. Thx

[TedBruno17 in reply to jwichmann]

I have lost 2 1/2 stone in 16 months while reducing from 10to 5mg. Like others have said I cut all cake, biscuits, potatoes, bread etc. No wine for two years!! My daily treat was at least 4 squares of dark chocolate. It eventually becomes easy and today I am struggling to eat normally ! You need strong will power ?? I am now the same weight I was 45 years ago. Probably too skinny but I do feel better for it

[PMRpro Ambassador in reply to TedBruno17]

Well done!!

[jwichmann in reply to TedBruno17]

Wow! Thanks for sharing!

[Coffeebeans]

I out on a large amount of weight over the last 5 years, probably a mix of steroids and menopause.

I've had to make a really effort to lose weight and have lost 4 stone to date. It only came off once I got to 4mgs though. I have reversed the prediabetes though so it was worth the effort.

[jwichmann in reply to Coffeebeans]

Thanks Coffeebeans! 4 mg is very helpful info.