A patient taking prednisolone and fludrocortisone should follow which dietary recommendation?

• A. High in carbohydrates
• B. High in fat
• C. High in protein
• D. Low in potassium

Answer: (C)

Prednisolone can cause protein breakdown and a negative nitrogen balance, leading to muscle wasting and impaired healing. Increasing dietary protein helps offset this catabolic effect, supporting tissue repair and maintaining lean body mass while on steroid therapy. Fludrocortisone’s main concern is potassium loss, which can lead to hypokalemia, so a low-potassium diet is not appropriate; instead, potassium levels should be monitored and managed as needed. Therefore, a higher-protein diet best addresses the changes caused by these medications.