To minimize adverse effects during long-term hydrocortisone treatment for Addison's disease, what nutrient should be increased?

Increasing calcium intake during long-term hydrocortisone treatment for Addison's disease is important due to the potential effects of corticosteroids on bone health. Hydrocortisone, as a glucocorticoid, can lead to decreased calcium absorption in the intestines and increase the risk of osteoporosis and fractures by affecting bone metabolism. This means that patients on long-term corticosteroid therapy may need greater amounts of calcium to mitigate these risks.

Calcium plays a crucial role in maintaining bone density and structure. Therefore, ensuring adequate calcium intake can help counteract the negative impact of hydrocortisone on bone health, making it an essential nutrient to focus on in this context. In addition to calcium, vitamin D is also important for calcium absorption and bone health, but the context of the question specifically highlights calcium as the nutrient to be increased.