Home Remedies for Leg Cramps

Make Leg Cramps While Sleeping a Thing of the Past

These home remedies for leg cramps can help you prevent future occurrences whether you suffer from severe leg cramps at night or during the day following exercise.

Broccoli If you have ever suffered from a leg cramp you don't need a list of symptoms do you? A muscle in your leg contracts into a hard knot and the accompanying pain can be excruciating. Sometimes you may wake up in the night screaming in pain and feeling unable to get up. Following the cramp eases, the muscle may be tender for some time.


Causes of Leg Cramps

The causes of leg cramps include:

  • Overexertion or exercise beyond what is normally done.
  • Dehydration - not drinking enough water or sudden loss of water through use of diuretics.
  • Calcium deficiency
  • Potassium deficiency
  • Magnesium deficiency

Leg cramps during pregnancy may be caused by the excess weight that the mother is carrying and it may also be caused by the same things as for other people. It is thought that phosphorus in the diet may contribute to leg cramps. Reduce the amount of phosphorus you are eating by cutting out soft drinks and processed meats.

Here are some home remedies for leg cramps:

Foot and leg cramps brought on by the overexertion of the leg muscles can be relieved by gentle massage and the application of heat through a heating pad or hot water bottle.

Severe leg cramps at night can be relieved by getting out of bed and actually standing on the leg that is cramping. It may be necessary to walk around a bit because immediately relaxing again by going back to bed may result in the leg cramping again. If this happens, apply heat and gently massage before returning to bed. For immediate treatment, eat a couple of tums or drink a glass of milk. If you think you may be dehydrated, drink a glass of water as well.

It is important to have enough calcium, potassium, and magnesium in the diet. Increasing the foods that provide these nutrients often puts an end to leg cramps. Notice that broccoli is on all three lists - a true super food.

Foods that are high in potassium are:

  • Oranges
  • Tomatoes
  • Potatoes
  • Avocado
  • Cucumber
  • Green pepper
  • Brussel sprouts
  • Broccoli
  • Squash
  • Egglant
  • Strawberries
  • Bananas
  • Cabbage
  • Cauliflower
  • Apricots

Foods that are high in magnesium are:

  • Artichoke
  • Beans
  • Brazil nuts
  • Broccoli
  • Brown rice
  • Bulgar
  • Cereal made with whole grains
  • Halibut
  • Milk
  • Peanuts and peanut butter
  • Scallops
  • Soybeans
  • Spinach
  • Sweet Potato
  • Whole wheat bread

Foods that are high in calcium are:

  • Milk, cheese, yogurt
  • Tofu
  • Beans
  • Cabbage
  • Spinach
  • Broccoli
  • Swiss chard
  • Brazil nuts
  • Almonds

Disclaimer: Always consult your medical professional before trying any homemade treatment. This site is designed for informational purposes only and is not rendering medical advice or professional services.

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