Fasting while on prednisone
I had been fasting for quite some time before my diagnosis of PMR (16-18 hours fasting most days). I haven't been since on prednisone. I'd like to try again, at least for 14 hours, but I saw somewhere it says it could actually be bad while on prednisone. Does anyone fast, or do TRE (time-restructed eating) successfully? I am fighting increased hunger and know I have gained weight. This is depressing!
Interested in more discussions like this? Go to the Polymyalgia Rheumatica (PMR) Support Group.
Connect

I eat my last meal at 5pm. I get up go to the gym and have something to eat about 9am. I have done that for years. Right thru PMR, Covid, anything else I may have acquired. I also gained weight on steroids but mostly due to the feeling of wanting to pick at foods all day. Mostly junk.
-
Like -
Helpful -
Hug
1 Reaction@mech, I currently do intermittent fasting using 16 to 18 hour most days but my PMR is in remission. I think it's generally safe but something that should be discussed with your doctor or rheumatologist. @pawprintpeg had a similar question in another discussion that you might find helpful:
-- I want to fast, should I continue prednisone: https://connect.mayoclinic.org/discussion/i-want-to-fast-should-i-continue-prednisone/
You also might find this article helpful as it contains some tips on how to prevent weight gain on prednisone:
-- What to Know About Prednisone and Your Diet: https://www.webmd.com/drugs/what-to-know-prednisone-diet
-
Like -
Helpful -
Hug
4 ReactionsThank you so much. Ill give it a read
-
Like -
Helpful -
Hug
1 Reaction@tuckerp I have noticed an increase in appetite. Im going to try and avoid the extra eating, but i know it won't be easy. Thank you for the reply! Im going to get back into it.
-
Like -
Helpful -
Hug
1 Reaction@mech
Are you sure it’s not excess stomach acid? I have had terrible hunger feelings but I think since I’m on prednisone it has caused excess acid and stomach grumbling. It’s hard for me to tell the difference between hunger and excess acid. I’m seeing a gastroenterologist at the end of the month. Also makes me feel somewhat nauseous so my appetite isn’t always the best.
I don't think so. I don't have any stomach acid, reflux or other issues. I definitely notice an increase in hunger. But I've started exercising again, so I'm hoping that will help!
-
Like -
Helpful -
Hug
1 Reaction@caroljeand yes another side effect for me was gastric issues. I use a prescription 40mg of famotidine daily. Helps but I never had issues before prednisone.
@tuckerp
I am on 40 mg pantaprazole before lunch and 20 mg famotidine at bedtime and still have some nausea and have to use a tums once in awhile. I’ve had gastric issues before prednisone but nothing like this! Can’t wait to get off of prednisone.
-
Like -
Helpful -
Hug
1 Reaction