Leg cramps

[JudyLV]

Recently I have been waking at night with leg cramps. They are mostly in my lower leg and/or foot. I have not changed any of my supplements lately. The only change in diet has been to remove grains. I take magnesium malate as recommended by one of my doctors years ago. Does anyone know if there is a different form of magnesium that would be more helpful in preventing leg cramps?

Thanks.

--Judy

[annelb]

Not sure what form of Mg is best other than stay away from Mg Oxide as it does not absorb well. I use Mg Taurate because it is supposed to be good for the heart. I have also taken Mg Citrate and Glycinate. I have heard good things about Jigsaw Mg, a sustained release Mg with some added B vitamins. How much are you taking? Low potassium can also be a cause.

[nick's mom]

i'm wondering about salt. you can have leg cramps if your salt intake is too low. hope you figure it out and they stop soon.

[jcc]

Judy, could you be dehydrated? Water and magnesium are my go to first thoughts, but you are already doing the magnesium!

[JudyLV]

I was thinking it might have something to do with the calcium/magnesium balance. I had bad cramps the other night and had not taken my lunchtime supplements which include calcium. I am trying not to skip the supplements and have had fewer cramps.
I generally drink lots of water during the day so I don't think it is dehydration. I also use a lot of salt- but since I do not eat processed food it is probably ok.
Thanks for the ideas.
--Judy