High Protein Diet for Cushing's Disease

According to information from the National Endocrine and Metabolic Disease Information Services, Cushing's Disease is a disorder characterized by overproduction of the hormone cortisol in the body. Cortisol is a substance produced by the adrenal glands, made in response to stressful situations to provide the body with quick energy to escape the threat. When cortisol is overproduced, problems can occur such as increase fat storage, muscle weakness, and constant anxiety. While a high protein diet cannot cure Cushing's Disease, it can help to alleviate some of the muscle wasting which can occur.

High Protein Diet

• Consume a diet that is rich in natural sources of protein such as lean meats, poultry, seafood, and dairy to alleviate some of the muscle wasting brought on by Cushing's Disease. Ensure that about 30 to 40 percent of the total daily calories are from quality protein sources. Beyond strictly concerning yourself with protein, consume an otherwise healthy, natural diet consisting of grains, fruits, vegetables, and sources of healthy fat (such as seeds, nuts, and oils). Additionally, aim to limit consumption of sodium if you are affected by hypertension (a common side effect of Cushing's disease.) Do this by restricting your use of table salt, along with avoiding processed and pre-packaged foods whenever possible, as they tend to contain additional salt used as a preservative.

Supplementation

• Supplement your diet with both calcium and vitamin D to stave off the degeneration in bone tissue brought on by Cushing's disease. Take at least 500 to 1000mg of calcium per day, along with 400 to 800IUs of vitamin D. Beyond that, consider purchasing a whey or casein protein powder supplement to help you meet your daily protein requirements if you are otherwise finding it difficult to consume enough protein from solid food sources.