What to eat for leg cramps during sleep at night

Sep 04, 2024 Source: Cainiu Health
Disease description:

I suddenly experienced a leg cramp in the middle of the night while sleeping. May I ask the doctor what I can take to relieve this condition?

Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Fan Cungang

Nocturnal leg cramps are usually associated with muscle fatigue, electrolyte imbalance, or dehydration. Regarding diet, you may refer to the following suggestions:

1. Supplement potassium: Foods rich in potassium such as bananas, potatoes, and spinach help maintain normal nerve and muscle function.

2. Increase calcium intake: Milk, for example, contains abundant calcium that is easily absorbed by the body, helping to meet calcium requirements and alleviate symptoms of leg cramps. Other calcium-rich foods include hazelnuts, soybeans, kelp, black fungus, and sesame seeds.

3. Increase magnesium intake: Magnesium found in whole grains, nuts, seeds, and leafy green vegetables also helps prevent cramps.

4. Foods high in vitamin D: Such as beef liver, lamb liver, eggs, duck eggs, and mushrooms. These foods help the body absorb and utilize calcium, preventing leg cramps caused by calcium deficiency.

In addition, regular stretching and moderate exercise can strengthen muscles and reduce the occurrence of cramps. Maintain a balanced diet along with appropriate physical activity, and avoid excessive fatigue. If symptoms persist, timely medical consultation and examination are recommended.