Food That Can Eat For Addison’s Disease – An Effective Diet

Addison’s Disease named after the English physician, Thomas Addison (1793–1860) was the first to describe the disease in the mid-19^th century. The symptoms are progressive anemia, low blood pressure, great weakness, and bronze discoloration of the skin. It is because of inadequate secretion of hormones by the adrenal cortex.

Foods That Can Help Deal With Addison’s Disease

People with Addison’s disease suffer adrenal deficiency due to low aldosterone. They can benefit from a high-sodium diet. You must consult your health care professional or a dietitian to recommend the best sodium sources and the amount of sodium you should intake each day.

However, it is important to note that high doses of corticosteroids are linked to a higher risk of osteoporosis. It is a condition that makes bones less dense and more likely to fracture. If you take corticosteroids, you may need to add enough dietary calcium and vitamin D to protect your bone health. Consult a health care professional or a dietitian to know how much calcium you need based on your age or if need to take calcium supplements.

The hormone aldosterone regulates the balance of sodium and potassium in our body. People with Addison’s disease and low aldosterone may have low levels of sodium and high amounts of potassium, but you can help manage the disease with your diet.

Foods high in sodium are:

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

If you crave salt, you should eat salty food, you may benefit from snacking on salted crackers or pretzels too.

The doctor may prescribe steroid medications that can balance your salt intake and allow you to eat a normal diet but over time these medicines can cause damage to the bones and bone disease. Thus, you should also eat foods in calcium and vitamin D for your bones like milk, cheese, yogurt, soy milk, green vegetables like kale, broccoli, tofu, fortified cereal, and orange juice. You must eat a well-balanced and nutritious diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and proteins.

The best foods to fuel your body and help lose weight:

1. Unprocessed foods- because processed food is full of preservatives, additives, sodium, trans fat, and artificial ingredients that may slow you down.

2. Seasonal fruits and vegetables- fresh and seasonal foods contain more nutrients

3. Avoid beverages- If you cannot avoid caffeine, consume in a smaller amount. It doesn’t really provide the body with energy. Your body requires good nutrition and balanced meals and snacks. Sodas and energy drinks are full of refined sugar and artificial ingredients that can cause other health issues if overconsuming. 

4. Lean proteins- like chicken, turkey, and fish, which provide quality protein, and contain less saturated fat. Fishes that are high in omega-3 fatty acids, like salmon and tuna, are as beneficial for the heart as healthy fats.

5. Whole grains- Refined carbohydrates like sugars and white flour add little nutrition. Whole-grain foods and complex carbohydrates ensure your body gets the full benefits of the grain that adds fiber to your diet.

6. Nuts and seeds- are best in beating fatigue and fighting hunger. They add healthy nutrients and energy to your body.

7. Water- Water is life. It may not provide energy, but it helps facilitate the energetic processes in the body. Drink enough water throughout the day, and avoid sodas, coffee, and other drinks for a glass of water. This simple change can make a big difference.

8. Vitamins and supplements- Consult a nutritionist or doctor to get you started on a nutritional supplement regimen if required.

9. Bananas- are packed with potassium, fiber, vitamins, and the perfect amount of carbohydrates that boost your natural energy. 

10. Oats- A big bowl of oats contains a punch of filling fiber and little protein. It is good for people who experience blood sugar spikes and drops with other processed breakfast cereals. You can add a little honey and some mixed berries for yourself.

11. Chia seeds- are an excellent source of prolonged energy thanks to carb content, healthy fats, and filling fiber properties.

Be mindful of what you eat for a healthy and effective way to keep your energy up. With regular exercise and good nutrition, you can maintain healthy levels of energy.