Muscle cramps are common injuries that affect both active and sedentary people, but cramps caused by lactic acid usually are seen in people undergoing strenuous activity. Lactic acid builds up and prevents your muscle from contracting properly. One effective treatment is taking potassium supplements. Potassium helps regulate muscle function and can prevent muscle cramps.
Muscle Cramp
A cramp is a sudden, involuntary contraction of one or more of your muscles. When you have a cramp, it can cause sharp pain and the inability to use the affected muscle. A common cause of cramps is strenuous activity, or anaerobic exercise. During anaerobic exercise, oxygen levels decrease, causing a buildup of lactic acid. The elevated lactic acid level causes muscles to contract irregularly, leading to a muscle cramp.
Potassium
Potassium is an essential mineral needed for several important body functions. It helps maintain the health and regulation of your kidneys, heart and skeleton. Potassium also helps control muscle contraction. Low potassium levels, known as hypokalemia, cause a buildup of lactic acid, which leads to cramps. An important consideration when trying to prevent muscle cramps is your sodium level. Sodium works contrary to potassium. If you are consuming high levels of sodium, you need high levels of potassium to balance the two minerals.
Potassium Supplements
Potassium supplements come in both pill and liquid form, and in different dosages. Take the pill whole, without breaking, sucking or chewing it, which can irritate your throat and mouth. The liquid form should be mixed with water or fruit juice and drank slowly, over five to 10 minutes. Take potassium supplements within 30 minutes of a meal or snack. Do not stop taking the supplement without your doctor's permission. If you experience any side effects, such as nausea, upset stomach, leg discomfort, uneven heartbeat, extreme thirst, muscle weakness or limp feeling, contact your doctor right away.
Considerations
According to LegCrampSite.com, most people who take potassium supplements notice a significant decrease in muscle cramps. However, potassium needs another mineral, magnesium, to work properly. Therefore, it is a good idea to take a supplement that has both potassium and magnesium in it. As always, consult your doctor before taking any supplement. Ask your doctor what dosage would be good for you and follow his instructions precisely. Tell him if you have any medical conditions that might be affected by your potassium supplement intake.
