Systemic Steroid Taper

Steroids tend to cause muscle loss, weakened bones, elevated blood sugar and blood pressure, and swelling, so a diet that compensates for these can help during tapering. Adequate protein to protect muscle, calcium and vitamin D for bones, and potassium-rich vegetables and fruits to reduce swelling are beneficial. Salty foods worsen swelling and blood pressure, and sugary foods worsen blood sugar, so it's best to cut back on both. However, if you have kidney disease, diabetes, or other conditions, follow your prescribing doctor's dietary restrictions first.

Our Korean Medicine Clinic's Perspective

In Korean medicine, a strong digestive system is seen as essential for turning food into energy and muscle. At Dongjedang, we support the digestive function that tends to weaken during tapering, so that the protein and nutrition you eat actually translate into recovery. For a swollen, heavy body, we help circulate stagnant fluid and waste to make the body feel lighter.