At some point, people may experience spasms or cramps in their feet or legs due to dehydration or muscle strain. However, people may also experience muscle spasms due to a lack of the mineral/enzyme potassium. Taking potassium can help prevent and treat muscle spasms in the feet due to dehydration and potassium deficiency.
Identification
Potassium is a mineral needed for the health and functioning of the nerves, muscles, kidneys, digestive system and the heart. Although most foods contain potassium, according to PubMed Health, diseases such as kidney disease and gastrointestinal disease can remove potassium from the body.
Causes
A deficiency in potassium can cause high blood pressure, hypokalemia and cramping in the extremities. Sodium and potassium work together to help maintain proper levels of water in the body. Losing water through excessive urination can decrease potassium levels. Potassium helps control nerve stimulation and muscle contractions, so having a low level of potassium can result in leg and foot cramping.
Treatment With Potassium
To treat potassium deficiency, you may be directed to take 2,000 mg of potassium per day via supplement. Potassium supplements may cause stomach irritation and nausea; in higher doses, it can cause abnormal heart rhythms. If you experience any symptoms such as irregular heartbeat or chest pains, contact your physician. If you've been diagnosed with kidney disease or hyperkalemia, do not take potassium supplements, as stated by the University of Maryland Medical Center.
Considerations
If you experience regular cramping in the feet or legs, it can be caused by other conditions such as restless leg syndrome, peripheral artery disease, alcoholism, chronic kidney failure, Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes, or muscle fatigue. Foot cramps can also come about due to dehydration, which may lead to a deficiency in potassium.
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