Stuff Your Doctor Should Know #279 The real cause of nighttime leg cramps,
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Oct 3, 2024 Patrick Sullivan, co-founder of Jigsaw Health and magnesium expert, dives deep into the mystery of nighttime leg cramps. He reveals that deficiency in magnesium, rather than potassium, might be the real culprit. Sullivan shares alarming stats about magnesium deficiency linking it to heart disease and anxiety. He unpacks the essential role of electrolytes in hydration and discusses how holistic approaches like meditation can enhance overall well-being. Get ready to rethink your diet and address those leg cramps!
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Two Types of Cramps
- There are two types of muscle cramps: one related to exertion and one to nighttime pain.
- Potassium deficiency may cause cramps during physical activity, while magnesium deficiency is linked to nighttime leg cramps.
Dietary Magnesium
- Consider magnesium-rich foods like dark chocolate, nuts, seeds, spinach, black beans, chia seeds, and avocado.
- Evaluate your diet and stress levels, as stress depletes magnesium faster than other electrolytes.
Breathing for Cramps
- Kitty Martone describes experiencing severe nighttime leg cramps.
- She found relief through deep, conscious breathing while waiting for magnesium supplements to take effect.