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Cushing's Protein Diet

Cushing's syndrome, which affects adults between ages 20 and 50, affects an estimated 15 million every year. Sometimes called hypercortisolism or hyperadrenocorticism, Cushing's syndrome is caused when the body's tissues are exposed for a long period to cortisol, a hormone found in the blood, or to glucocorticoids, which are used to treat inflammatory diseases. Some suffer the symptoms of Cushing's due to steroid use for asthma, arthritis or lupus. Cushing's syndrome requires a special diet (see references 1 and 2).

  1. What is Cortisol

    • Cortisol is a hormone found in blood. Hormones are special chemicals that travel through the blood to different parts of the body to do their work. When the adrenal glands overproduce, cortisol begins to break down and Cushing's sets in (see Reference 3).

    Diet

    • One of the biggest thoughts out there is that once you have Cushing's, you should go on a protein diet. Cushing's does break down proteins, eliminates calcium and deposits fat layers around your body (see Reference 3).

      However, an all-protein diet? Not so, says Barbara Craven, Ph.D.., R.D., L.D., and recovering Cushing's sufferer. Dr. Craven says that you must first normalize your appetite. Try to eliminate what refined carbs: white flour and white sugar. Also, get rid of animal fats. Nevertheless, Dr. Craven says don't starve yourself of carb energy. You need carbs because they are the fuel for your body. Your body burns the carbs, then fat. Without the carbs, your body would actually begin to burn muscle instead. If you are limiting your carb intake and get low on energy, try eating a small square of dark chocolate.

      You do need more protein in your diet, as well as calcium, because you can suffer bone loss due to the high cortisol levels. Supplements, such as calcium or vitamin D, can help you achieve a desired daily amount. In addition, limit the amount of salt in your diet. Too much salt can cause high blood pressure and a complication of Cushing's is already high blood pressure (see Reference 1).

    Other Help

    • Diet alone can't do it all. Because of potential bone loss, one of the best things is regular exercise. More specifically, weight-bearing exercises, like free weights, pull-ups or sit-ups. Because weight gains in the torso and in the face are common side effects of Cushing's, exercises that increase your heart rate are good (see Reference 3). Try fast walking, jogging, swimming and biking.

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