Cramp Facts

• As we get older, we’re more vulnerable to cramping because of muscle atrophy and/or circulation problems. 
• Nighttime leg cramps are especially common and may be caused by inactivity, smoking, impaired circulation, or low levels of the minerals sodium, potassium, magnesium or calcium.
• Other causes of cramps:  pregnancy, hypothyroidism, kidney failure, Addison’s Disease and peripheral neuropathy (usually a result of diabetes.)

To Prevent Cramps

• Stay hydrated.
• Stretch regularly.
• Stay active to maintain muscle and circulation.
• For women, take a Calcium/Magnesium supplement a few times per day and before bedtime.  Aim to get a total of 500-700mg Calcium and half that amount of Magnesium.
• Eat plenty of potassium-rich foods such as bananas, tomatoes, broccoli, grapefruit, cantaloupe, oranges and potatoes.
• Check your iron levels, especially if you are getting leg cramps at night.
• Warm baths, massage and acupuncture can help ease a cramp that is already in progress