Weight gain occurs when you regularly eat more calories than you use through normal bodily functions and physical activity, however many people gain weight from taking medications. Weight gain is a common side effect of many drugs. The most common drugs that can cause weight gain are steroids, antipsychotic drugs, and insulin, among others.
If you want to lose a few extra pounds that you’ve put on since taking a weight gain-inducing medication, you’re already on the right track. Armed with that knowledge that gaining weight is a potential side effect, you can make more conscious choices when it comes to meals and exercise
1 Make conscious choices about sodium
Avoiding too much sodium in your diet is smart for anyone looking to eat healthier. But patients on steroids or antidepressants might want to consider paying extra close attention.
That means avoiding processed foods, canned foods, and fast foods, since they’re often packed with sodium.
2 Increase potassium in your diet
Eating a potassium-rich diet is great for people who are looking to lose weight gained because of medication — potassium flushes out sodium. And a potassium-rich diet is linked to other health benefits, such as reduced blood pressure, protection against stroke, and osteoporosis prevention.
Potassium-rich foods include:
- bananas
- sweet potatoes
- avocados
- coconut water
- spinach
- black beans
- edamame
- potatoes
- beets
3 Ask your doctor about your options
Managing your condition is a priority, so there may not yet be any options that cause little to no weight gain. Still, ask your doctor if there are any alternative medications or treatments that would maintain your health without the extra pounds.
For people on steroids, ask if going on the shortest, most effective dose is a possibility. If you’re taking antidepressants, bupropion (Wellbutrin) may be less likely to cause weight gain.
4 Eat small, frequent meals
Your appetite can increase while taking specific medications, so you may be tempted to eat more. Instead of having three massive meals throughout the day, breaking up your food into smaller, more frequent meals can make you feel like you’re consuming more calories because you have little time between snacks to be hungry.
It’s recommended to stave off hunger by eating six small meals a day versus three large ones.
5 Stay active
Staying active is important for overall health as well as weight loss or maintenance. Depending on your level of health or current symptoms, you may want to consult your doctor first.
6 Try intermittent fasting
For people who have come off medication, intermittent fasting can be an effective way to lose weight, provided it’s recommended by your doctors.
7 Get some quality shut-eye
A good night’s sleep can do wonders when you’re trying to lose weight, especially if you’re taking steroids for any condition.
