Daily steroid therapy and fluid retention in patients requires what type of dietary adjustment?

In patients undergoing daily steroid therapy, fluid retention is a common side effect, primarily due to the steroids' influence on electrolyte balance and their ability to cause sodium retention. The key dietary adjustment needed in these cases is the implementation of a no added salt diet.

A reduction in sodium intake is crucial because excessive sodium can exacerbate fluid retention, leading to increased blood pressure and swelling. By minimizing salt in their diet, patients can help mitigate these side effects and manage their fluid levels more effectively. This dietary strategy is particularly important in the context of steroid therapy, as steroids can predispose patients to complications related to increased fluid volume.

Adjustments such as increased calcium intake, high protein diets, or increased fiber intake do not directly address the primary concern of fluid retention associated with steroid use. While calcium is important for bone health—especially since long-term steroid therapy can lead to osteoporosis—it's not specifically related to fluid management. Similarly, protein and fiber adjustments could benefit overall nutrition but are not the immediate dietary modifications required to manage fluid retention in this context.