Prolonged exposure of the body to the hormone cortisol leads to the development of Cushing's syndrome. According to the National Endocrine and Metabolic Diseases Information Service, though Cushing's syndrome is rare, it is most commonly encountered in patients 20 to 50 years of age. As mentioned by Warren Grant Magnuson Clinical Center of the National Institutes of Health, Cushing's syndrome changes the way the body metabolizes and uses nutrients. As a consequence, increased amounts of different nutrients are needed to meet the body's demand for nourishment. Before taking supplements for treatment, consult your physician.
Calcium
The Warren Grant Magnuson Clinical Center advises that Cushing's syndrome predisposes patients to decreased calcium levels, resulting in the development of bone thinning or osteoporosis. It has been shown in a study published in the 2003 issue of the the Journal of Clinical Endocrinology and Metabolism that patients suffering from the consequences of Cushing's syndrome have increased urinary excretion of calcium leading to calcium depletion and osteoporosis. Furthermore, increased levels of calcium in the urine predisposes Cushing's syndrome patients to develop a calcium stone. Bone loss in Cushing's syndrome is relatively difficult to replace, but calcium supplementation can be effective. Thus, calcium supplementation is highly recommended for patients with Cushing's syndrome. You should only take calcium supplements after talking to your doctor.
Potassium
As indicated by Merck Manuals, potassium levels decrease in patients with Cushing's syndrome. The reason for this is the increased urinary excretion of potassium by the kidneys due to the influence of the increased cortisol levels produced by the adrenal glands, the pair of glands located on top of each kidney. Significantly decreased potassium levels, or hypokalemia, may lead to muscle weakness, fatigue, muscle cramps and, sometimes, paralysis. Irregular heartbeat may also accompany hypokalemia. Merck Manuals highly recommends that patients experiencing hypokalemia replace the loss with potassium-rich foods and potassium dietary supplementation. Consultation with your doctor for medical clearance should occur before taking potassium supplements, as an overabundance puts you at risk as well.
Phosphorus
Phosphorus makes up 1 percent of the human body weight, according to Medline Plus. However, most of these minerals are deposited within the bones and teeth. Phosphorus is an essential mineral needed for the production of usable energy from carbohydrates and fats and for the utilization of proteins for normal growth. The aforementioned Journal of Clinical Endocrinology and Metabolism study revealed the prevalence of increased phosphorus urinary excretion in Cushing's syndrome patients. The elevated levels of phosphorus expelled can further dispose a patient to the development of nephrolithiasis, or kidney stones. In this scenario, it is highly recommended that Cushing's syndrome patients have phosphorus supplementation for normal body functions. Discuss the addition of phosphorus with your doctor.
References
- National Endocrine and Metabolic Diseases Information Service: Cushing's Syndrome
- The Merck Manuals: Potassium
- Warren Grant Magnuson Clinical Center: Nutrition for Patients with Cushing's Syndrome
- "The Journal of Clinical Endocrinology and Metabolism: Nephrolithiasis in Cushing's Disease: Prevalence, Etiopathogenesis, and Modification after Disease Cure
- Medline Plus: Phosphorus in diet
