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[Diet and chronic corticosteroid therapy].
1Servizio di Dietetica, Istituto di Biochimica e Biochimica Clinica, Facoltà di Medicina e Chirurgia, Università Cattolica S. Cuore, Roma, Italia.
La Clinica Terapeutica
|September 4, 2004
Summary
Dietary interventions can mitigate corticosteroid side effects. A balanced diet, rich in protein and complex carbohydrates, and low in fat, sodium, and ethanol, supports patients undergoing corticosteroid therapy.
Area of Science:
- Endocrinology
- Nutrition Science
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Corticosteroid therapy is a common treatment for various diseases, but it can cause significant side effects.
- These side effects impact multiple organ systems, including energy metabolism and mineral balance (sodium, potassium, calcium, phosphorus).
- The severity of side effects varies based on the drug, dosage, patient susceptibility, and underlying condition.
Purpose of the Study:
- To highlight the crucial, yet often underestimated, role of dietary intervention in managing patients on chronic corticosteroid therapy.
- To outline specific dietary strategies aimed at reducing long-term corticosteroid-related side effects.
- To correct major metabolic disturbances associated with corticosteroid use.
Main Methods:
- Dietary recommendations focus on a macronutrient distribution: moderately high protein (1.5 g/Kg/day), low fat (<30% of calories, emphasizing unsaturated fats), and high complex carbohydrates (80% of caloric intake).
- Emphasis on foods rich in water, calcium, magnesium, and potassium, while limiting sodium intake.
- Recommendations also include reduced consumption of ethanol and purines.
Main Results:
- Specific dietary compositions can help manage and potentially reduce the incidence and severity of corticosteroid-induced side effects.
- Metabolic derangements, such as electrolyte imbalances and altered energy metabolism, can be addressed through targeted nutritional support.
- The study suggests a framework for dietary management to improve patient outcomes during long-term corticosteroid treatment.
Conclusions:
- Dietary intervention is a vital, non-ancillary component in the management of patients receiving chronic corticosteroid therapy.
- A carefully planned diet can significantly mitigate common side effects and correct metabolic imbalances.
- Further research is exploring the benefits of antioxidant vitamin (C, E) and selenium supplementation in conjunction with dietary strategies.