HomeDiseasesaddisonsAddison’s Disease Diet

Addison’s Disease Diet

 

Addison’s disease affects the adrenal glands and is also known as hypoadrenalism or primary adrenal insufficiency. It is a serious, potentially fatal, but uncommon condition caused by a lack of aldosterone or cortisol hormones in a body. These hormones are required to maintain the immune system, blood pressure, as well as other vital functions.

The adrenal glands, which are located on top of the kidneys, produce crucial hormones such as cortisol and aldosterone. To release these hormones, they communicate with the hypothalamus and pituitary gland.

In Addison’s disease, the adrenal glands do not synthesise adequate amounts of these hormones due to the damage to the glands. Also, sometimes, when the pituitary gland is damaged, the adrenals do not release aldosterone or cortisol.

Symptoms of Addison’s Disease

People with Addison’s disease may experience a variety of symptoms. While symptoms differ from individual to individual, the following are among the most common ones:

  • Fatigue (chronic)
  • Appetite loss
  • Weight loss
  • Skin darkening—most evident on skin folds and scars, knuckles, lips, and gums
  • Muscle weakness
  • Pain in the abdomen

Symptoms can also Occasionally Include:

  • Hypoglycaemia (low blood glucose levels)
  • Diarrhoea
  • Vomiting
  • Nausea
  • Irregular or missing periods
  • Low blood pressure
  • Joint pain
  • Mood symptoms, such as irritability or depression
  • Low libido (little interest in sex)
  • Craving salts

While there is no specific Addison’s disease diet that can cure Addison’s disease, certain dietary changes can help manage the symptoms and prevent complications.

A high-sodium diet may benefit some of Addison’s disease patients with low aldosterone. Aldosterone, one of the hormones produced by the adrenal glands, helps regulate blood pressure and balance the fluids in the body. When the body does not produce enough aldosterone, blood pressure can drop, which can cause dizziness and fainting. To aid in maintaining blood pressure, people with Addison’s disease may need to consume more sodium than normal. Therefore, salt intake is an important consideration for people with Addison’s disease. This can be done by adding a pinch of salt to food, using saltier seasonings, or eating salty snacks. Also, a doctor or a nutritionist can provide guidance on the proper sodium sources and the amount of sodium one should consume each day.

Other sources containing sodium include:

  • Eggs
  • Chicken
  • Grain products
  • Cheese
  • Salted nuts
  • Canned tuna
  • Salted seeds
  • Canned beans
  • Soups

One should consume salty foods if they have Addison’s disease and crave salt. Although nutritious foods such as eggs, poultry, cheese, salted seeds, and nuts are the best sources of sodium, people with this condition may also benefit from consuming salted crackers or pretzels as snacks.

The doctor may, however, recommend steroid medications that can help individuals balance their salt intake, thereby allowing them to eat a normal diet.

In Addison’s disease, high doses of corticosteroids are recommended as a part of the treatment. These high doses have been linked to an increased risk of osteoporosis, a disorder where the bones become porous and more prone to fracture. If individuals take corticosteroids, they may need to take supplement with calcium and vitamin D to protect their bone health. A doctor or a nutritionist can advise on the amount of calcium one should consume based on their age.

Corticosteroid users should make sure they get enough vitamin D and calcium. Calcium-rich foods include the following:

  • Seafood
    ◦ Shrimp
    ◦ Sardines
    ◦ Salmon
  • Fruits and vegetables
    ◦ Soybeans
    ◦ Broccoli
    ◦ Collard greens
    ◦ Kale
    ◦ Oranges
  • Dairy products
    ◦ Yoghurt (plain, low-fat, or Greek)
    ◦ Ricotta
    ◦ Skim milk
    ◦ Cheese (Mozzarella or cheddar)
    ◦ Cottage cheese
  • Fortified foods
    ◦ Orange juice and other fruit juices, fortified
    ◦ Tofu (prepared with calcium)
    ◦ Cereal
    ◦ Oatmeal
    ◦ Plant-based milks (e.g., soy or almond)

Vitamin D-rich foods include the following:

  • Seafood
    ◦ Sardines
    ◦ Tuna
    ◦ Salmon
  • Meat and poultry products
    ◦ Liver of beef
    ◦ Liver of beef
    ◦ ground beef
  • Vegetables
    ◦ White and portabella mushrooms
  • Milk and dairy products
    ◦ Cheddar cheese
    ◦ Milk with added vitamin D
  • Other
    ◦ Cod liver oil
    ◦ Eggs
    ◦ Cereals fortified with vitamin D
    ◦ Plant-based milks (e.g., soy, almond, and oat), fortified with vitamin D

Sunlight exposure is another source of vitamin D.

Foods to avoid with Addison’s Disease

A long-term use of steroid medications makes people with Addison’s disease highly likely to develop obesity and osteoporosis. As a result, some foods should be avoided or consumed with caution. These are some examples of such foods:

  • Black tea
  • Green tea
  • Coffee
  • Bananas and oranges
  • Salt substitutes
  • Alcohol
  • Foods containing high sugar and fats (e.g., chips)

In studies, some foods have been shown to raise the likelihood of osteoporosis and are advised to be avoided in Addison’s disease. Examples of these foods include:

  • Refined grains
  • Soft drinks
  • Processed meats
  • Fried foods
  • Desserts

Takeaway

In conclusion, Addison’s disease is a rare, chronic condition that occurs when the adrenal glands do not produce adequate amounts of the hormones, especially aldosterone and cortisol. While there is no specific diet that can cure Addison’s disease, certain dietary changes can help manage the symptoms and prevent complications. Salt intake, protein intake, and hydration as well as eating balanced meals that include a variety of fruits and vegetables are important measures for people with Addison’s disease. It’s important to work with a healthcare professional and a registered dietitian to determine the best dietary approach for an individual’s specific needs.

Addison’s Disease Diet FAQs

What foods should you avoid with Addison’s disease?

Individuals with Addison's disease should generally avoid or limit tea, coffee, alcohol, meat that has been processed, refined cereals, soft drinks, and fried foods along with foods that are high in saturated fat and sugar. However, it is best to consult a healthcare professional or registered dietitian for personalised dietary recommendations.

What foods are good for Addison’s disease?

There are no specific foods that are considered ‘good’ for Addison's disease. However, individuals with Addison's disease can benefit from a well-balanced diet that includes a variety of nutrient-rich foods. Some foods that can be beneficial include vegetables, fruits, sources of lean protein and edibles that are high in vitamin D and calcium. Patients might also be required to increase their salt consumption.

What should I eat with Addison’s disease?

Individuals with Addison's disease should consider the following dietary recommendations:
• High-sodium diet: Talk to your doctor or dietitian to determine the proper levels of sodium intake.
• Adequate calcium intake: Include calcium-rich foods like leafy greens, soybeans, seafood, dairy products, and fortified foods in your diet.
• Adequate vitamin D intake: Consume vitamin D-rich foods such as seafood, mushrooms, and dairy products, and get sunlight exposure.
Remember to consult with healthcare professionals for personalised dietary advice specific to your condition and medication regimen.

What foods reduce cortisol levels?

While there are no specific foods that directly reduce cortisol levels in the body, certain dietary practises can help support overall hormonal balance and stress reduction. These practises include avoiding high added sugar intake and focusing on whole grains, fruits, vegetables, legumes, dark chocolate, green tea, and healthy fats. Support gut health with probiotics and prebiotics. Stay hydrated with water.

What foods are good for the pituitary gland?

While there are no particular foods that directly target the pituitary gland, a balanced and nutrient-rich diet can support overall endocrine health. Focus on consuming a variety of whole foods, including fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats. Additionally, iron and iodine can promote optimal pituitary gland function.
Consult with a registered dietitian or healthcare professional for dietary recommendations as per individual needs.

How do I lose weight with Addison’s disease?

Losing weight with Addison's disease can be challenging, but here are a few strategies:
• Limit sugar intake
• Minimise stress
• Have a light exercises routine
• Follow the doctor's recommendations
Remember, individualised guidance from healthcare professionals is crucial to managing weight effectively with Addison's disease.

4 COMMENTS

Comments are closed.

About The Author

Dr.William Lewis Aliquam sit amet dignissim ligula, eget sodales orci. Etiam vehicula est ligula, laoreet porttitor diam congue eget. Cras vestibulum id nisl eu luctus. In malesuada tortor magna, vel tincidunt augue fringilla eget. Fusce ac lectus nec tellus malesuada pretium.

MBBS (Bachelor of Medicine & Bachelor of Surgery) Gold Medalist (2009-2015) M.D In General Medicine (2016-2019), CCID (Infectious Diseases)

PG Diploma In Clinical Endocrinology v& Diabetes, Clinical Associate in Non-Invasive Cardiology

Dr.William Lewis Aliquam sit amet dignissim ligula, eget sodales orci. Etiam vehicula est ligula, laoreet porttitor diam congue eget. Cras vestibulum id nisl eu luctus. In malesuada tortor magna, vel tincidunt augue fringilla eget. Fusce ac lectus nec tellus malesuada pretium.

MBBS (Bachelor of Medicine & Bachelor of Surgery) Gold Medalist (2009-2015) M.D In General Medicine (2016-2019), CCID (Infectious Diseases)

PG Diploma In Clinical Endocrinology v& Diabetes, Clinical Associate in Non-Invasive Cardiology

Recommend For You

Blog

7 Best Creams For...

Being a woman is not an easy job! Moreover, in...

14 Best Home Remedies...

Irregular Periods which are medically known as oligomenorrhea, are quite...

Subscribe Today

Receive Meaningful & Informative Blogs directly in your inbox

Top 3 Types of Alzheimer’s Disease

56
Types of Alzheimer's Disease: Based on the severity of symptoms of this condition, Alzheimer’s can be categorised into these subgroups: Mild Alzheimer's: This involves...

Oily Scalp Treatment at Home: Causes Symptoms & Home Remedies for Oily Scalp

38
Undoubtedly healthy and beautiful hair enhances your overall appearance. Take a look at your photographs; you will absolutely love those where your hair looks...

Zinc Rich Foods for Vegetarians: Overview, Benefits & Sources of Zinc for Vegetarians

34
Zinc Zinc is an essential mineral that plays a vital role in numerous biological processes within the human body. It is required for proper growth...

Manage Work Anxiety: Tips & Importance of Managing Anxiety at Work

23
In today's fast-paced and highly competitive work environment, it is common to feel overwhelmed and stressed out in a workplace. Whether it's due to...