Muscle spasms can happen to anyone. Unless someone has a serious medical condition, muscle spasms are usually the result of a mineral deficiency. There are many foods to avoid and to eat to help get rid of muscle spasms.
Calcium
Consuming more calcium is usually the first step to being free of muscle spasms. Napoleon, Ohio Chiropractor A. J. Hahn, D.C. specializes in natural remedies and recommends adding additional calcium to your diet if you are suffering from recurrent muscle spasms. Good sources of calcium include low-fat yogurt, skim milk and low-fat cheese. You can also take a calcium supplement, but be sure to speak to your doctor about this before beginning a new regimen.
Other good sources of calcium include seafood and fish, almonds, flaxseed, oats, parsley, peppermint, prunes, sesame seeds, tofu and kale.
Potassium
Another nutritional deficiency that many people suffering from muscle spasms have is a deficiency in potassium. Potassium can be found in bananas, potatoes, prune juice and dried fruit. If you are a very active person and are still experiencing muscle spasms, it may be because of a potassium deficiency. People who play active sports are particularly susceptible.
Potassium plays a big role in helping to maintain smooth muscle contractions, so a deficiency can have a negative effect on an individual. Restless leg syndrome is just one condition that can be the cause of a potassium deficiency. Increasing potassium intake can help eliminate muscle spasms all together.
Avoid Acidic Food and Other Tips
Avoid acidic foods and beverages, such as vinegar and tomatoes. Acidic foods tend to block the body's ability to properly absorb calcium, which can cause a calcium deficiency. Finally, take it easy. Most muscle spasms are a result of overuse of the muscles. According to Carolyn Chambers Clark, ARNP, EdD, even though almonds are a good source of calcium, be sure to avoid over-eating them, as eating too many foods that are high in oxalic acid (beets, greens, cashews, etc.) can also affect calcium absorption.
Always stretch before and after exercising or if you are planning to walk a great distance. Most people attempt to work through the pain when they experience muscle pain during workouts, but this is not recommended. No exercise should be painful for anyone. Take a break when you first experience the pain, resting for at least 15 minutes. Drink plenty of fluids (water). Drinking water helps ensure that your joints and muscles stay well-lubricated and hydrated, which is important for warding off muscle spasms and pain. After your 15-minute break, resume work and see how you feel.
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