If you are suffering from a nutritional deficiency, you may experience problems with leg cramps. Vitamins and minerals related to leg cramp symptoms include vitamin D, iron, potassium and magnesium. Vitamin deficiencies are more likely in individuals suffering from eating disorders, alcoholism, severe vomiting and diarrhea. Speak to your doctor about making changes to your diet or taking supplements to treat leg cramps.
Vitamin D
If you are having spasms in your legs and feet, you may not have enough vitamin D in your diet. Additional symptoms besides cramping include numbness, muscle weakness and tingling sensation in the hands and feet. According to MedlinePlus, if a vitamin D deficiency is expected, your doctor may recommend taking both vitamin D and calcium as supplements. A blood test can be done to measure the amount of vitamin D is in the blood before supplementation is suggested.
Iron
Low levels of iron in the brain may be one of the causes of a condition known as restless legs syndrome. When you suffer from this disorder, a throbbing and pulling sensation can occur in your legs and make it difficult for you to relax. After a blood test, your doctor can determine whether you require iron supplementation to help relieve symptoms. According to the "American Family Physician," physicians use iron supplements in patients with restless legs syndrome that have levels below 50 mg per ml.
Magnesium
According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, magnesium may also be helpful for patients who suffer from restless legs syndrome. Besides restless legs syndrome, magnesium deficiency can cause difficulty sleeping, low blood pressure, confusion, muscle spasms and abnormal heartbeat. Magnesium is available in supplement form and can also be found naturally in foods such as whole grains, spinach, kale, broccoli and nuts.
Potassium
When you don't have enough potassium in your diet, symptoms may include cramping, fatigue, muscle weakness and stomach upset. According to the Linus Pauling Institute, adults should have 4,700 mg of potassium per day. Potassium supplements are available along with the nutrient being naturally found in bananas, seeds, tomatoes, nuts, orange juice and raisins.
Member Comments