Cushing's disease is a condition caused by abnormally high levels of cortisol. Cortisol is a hormone produced by the adrenal gland to help the body react to physical and emotional stress, metabolize foods and regulate blood pressure. Cushing's disease may be caused by corticosteroid drugs, a pituitary tumor and adrenal tumor. Deficiency in vitamin D and calcium can worsen bone loss in patients with Cushing's disorder, according to the Pituitary Society.
Cushing's Disease and Vitamin D
Cushing's syndrome causes thinning of bones and bone loss due to high levels of cortisol in the blood. Bone loss can lead to increased bone fractures over time, according to the Pituitary Society. MayoClinic.com advises patients with Cushing's syndrome to take enough vitamin D. Vitamin D helps the body absorb more calcium, which is a mineral that strengthens bones.Vitamin D should be taken together with calcium.
Vitamin D
Vitamin D is a fat-soluble vitamin that is stored in the body's fatty tissue. The daily recommended dietary intake of vitamin D is 400 IU in males and females, according to MedlinePlus. Patients with Cushing's disease may require higher amounts of vitamin D. Foods rich in vitamin D include fortified milk, butter, cheese, cream, oysters, margarine, fortified cereals and fish.
Calcium
Calcium is an essential mineral that helps make bones and teeth strong. The daily recommended dietary intake of calcium is 1,000 mg in males and females. Patients with Cushing's syndrome may require more calcium. Milk and dairy products such as yogurt, cheese and cream contain the highest amounts of calcium. Other natural sources of calcium includes sardines, Chinese cabbage, kale, broccoli, spinach and salmon. Foods fortified with calcium include tofu, cereals, breads and fruit juices.
Symptoms of Cushing's Disease
Patients with Cushing's syndrome experience symptoms such as large rounded face, obesity in the torso with thinner arms and legs, thin fragile skin that bruises and heals slowly, increased fat in the neck and shoulder area, pink or purple stretch marks on the abdomen, thighs, breasts and arms, acne, facial hair in women, irregular menstrual periods, decreased sex drive, headache, muscle weakness, increased blood sugar levels, osteoporosis and high blood pressure, according to MayoClinic.com.
