Just Ask Terry

Terry is happy to provide his opinion on diet and nutrition, supplements and lifestyle choices. This information is for educational purposes only. It is not meant to replace the advice of your physician and is not to be considered medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Should you have any concerns please contact your physician directly.

Q. Dear Terry, “I have been on Prednisone steroids for an allergic reaction for the past month. I have had 2 side effects from the steroids: acne and water retention. I am standing up in a wedding in 2 weeks and I am in panic that these side effects will not be diminished in time for the wedding. If you could help in any way, I’d greatly appreciate it. Keep Smiling, and thanks!” —Mindy R., Springfield, IL Dear Mindy, Although time is not on your side, I do believe we can make some improvements within 2 weeks. For the puffiness caused by water retention, use pyridoxal-5-phosphate, or P-5-P. This is a biologically active form of vitamin B6 which works extremely well for water retention. I like P-5-P with magnesium for the best effects. I would also suggest using an acne-specific supplement formula that contains at least 10,000 IU vitamin A, 30 mg of zinc, and 200 mg of sulfur in each dose. Finally, I’d recommend a potent probiotic. Steroids destroy the natural balance of good bacteria in our intestinal tract which is one of the reasons it contributes to skin eruptions. I like your sign off of “keep smiling”, and if you keep that big smile on your face all day nobody will notice the minor imperfections that are usually magnified mostly in our own minds. Most people will be worried about their own imperfections. Keep in mind….we all have imperfections. Keep Smiling!