Risperdal, generic name risperidone, is an antipsychotic medication prescribed for schizophrenia and bipolar disorder. While Risperdal can help control hallucinations and manic episodes, it can also lead to significant weight gain. According to nutritionist Gay Riley, Risperdal's serotonin-blocking action may cause increased hunger, leading to excess caloric intake. If you have gained weight on Risperdal but find that it controls the symptoms of your mental illness, it is important not to stop taking the drug out of frustration. Instead, make lifestyle changes that can help prevent and reverse weight gain.
Step 1
Control your caloric intake by getting the most nutrition and satiety out of the foods you eat. Have a small meal every three hours to boost your metabolism and help combat cravings. Include complex carbohydrates and proteins in every meal.
Step 2
Replace refined sugar and processed flour with whole grains and healthier sweeteners. Switch from sugar to agave nectar, barley malt or raw honey. Bake with whole grain flours such as whole wheat, barley and spelt. Trade white rice for brown rice, quinoa or wheat berries.
Step 3
Incorporate daily exercise into your life. Thirty minutes to an hour of walking, swimming or yoga can help combat Risperdal weight gain. Take the stairs whenever possible, park far away from the door so you have to walk across the parking lot and find five minutes here and there to stretch.
Step 4
Visit a nutritionist or dietitian. Keep a food journal for a week before your appointment and write down everything you eat.
Step 5
Speak to your psychiatrist about reducing or switching your antipsychotic medication. He may be able to control your symptoms with a medication less likely to cause weight gain.
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