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Cushing's syndrome diet: high-fat, high-sugar, and low-fat diets

2026-02-01 20:42:49 · · #1

Patients with Cushing's syndrome should follow the "three highs and three lows" dietary principle: high protein, high potassium, high calcium, and low salt, low sugar, and low fat, to help control the condition and improve symptoms. A high-protein diet helps repair damaged tissues, a high-potassium and high-calcium diet can prevent electrolyte imbalances and osteoporosis, and a low-salt, low-sugar, and low-fat diet helps control weight and blood sugar levels.

1. High-protein diet: Cushing's syndrome patients often experience muscle atrophy and abnormal protein metabolism. Increasing protein intake helps repair tissues. It is recommended to choose high-quality protein sources, such as chicken breast, fish, beans, and eggs, with a daily intake controlled at 1.2-1.5 grams per kilogram of body weight.

2. High-potassium diet: Patients with Cushing's syndrome are prone to hypokalemia, and increasing potassium intake helps maintain electrolyte balance. Foods rich in potassium include bananas, oranges, spinach, potatoes, and nuts. Daily potassium intake should reach 3500-4700 mg.

3. High-calcium diet: Patients with Cushing's syndrome have a higher risk of osteoporosis, and increasing calcium intake is beneficial for bone health. It is recommended to eat more milk, cheese, yogurt, tofu, and dark green vegetables, with a daily calcium intake of 1000-1200 mg.

4. Low-sodium diet: Patients with Cushing's syndrome are prone to high blood pressure and edema. Reducing salt intake helps control blood pressure and reduce edema. Daily salt intake should be controlled below 5 grams, and pickled foods, processed foods, and high-sodium seasonings should be avoided.

5. Low-sugar diet: Patients with Cushing's syndrome are prone to blood sugar fluctuations, and reducing sugar intake helps control blood sugar levels. It is recommended to choose low-sugar fruits, whole grains, and low-sugar snacks, and avoid sugary drinks, desserts, and refined sugar.

6. Low-fat diet: Patients with Cushing's syndrome are prone to obesity and dyslipidemia. Reducing fat intake helps control weight and blood lipids. It is recommended to choose low-fat dairy products, lean meats, and vegetable oils, and avoid fried foods, high-fat meats, and cream.

Patients with Cushing's syndrome can effectively control their condition, improve symptoms, and enhance their quality of life by following a "high-sugar, high-salt, low-carbohydrate, low-calorie" diet. It is recommended to develop a personalized dietary plan under the guidance of a doctor or nutritionist and to regularly monitor relevant indicators to ensure the scientific validity and effectiveness of dietary adjustments.

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