The worst part about getting a muscle cramp is that they often happen at the most inopportune times. The day following a strenuous workout, you can be getting in to your car, walking down the aisle in the supermarket or playing with your kids when all of a sudden you get that horrible tight feeling in your muscle.
If this happens to you regularly, try following these tips for warding off muscle cramps by making better choices about what you include in your daily diet.
Electrolytes
Many people believe that muscle cramps come from some sort of physical strain, which is often true, but they can also come from a nutritional imbalance or an electrolyte shortage. In this regard, the first thing to consider is the amount of water you are taking in each day. Water contains electrolytes, so too much, or too little water will cause cramping. You can just sip on water if you are doing a light workout, just make sure to replenish all the fluids you lose. By the time you begin to feel thirsty, the beginning stages of dehydration have already begun. Other good sources of electrolytes are calcium and magnesium. You can get these by eating foods like spinach, broccoli, and yogurt.
Potassium
One of the better ways to avoid muscle cramping is by taking potassium supplements. You may have heard that bananas are actually a good snack for those who are just beginning a new workout or weight lifting routine. This is due to their high levels of potassium. Nutrition is so important especially when it comes to healing our bodies. You can take potassium supplements if needed if you feel you are not taking in the normal dietary amount.
Avoiding Muscle Strain
When it comes to muscle strain or overuse, you can avoid muscles cramps by being moderate and consistent with your work outs. If your body is not used to a certain exercise, it will cramp up, whereas if your body is used to an exercise, it is better able to handle the stress and you even begin developing muscle memory.
Calcium
Yet another important nutritional element to consider if you are having muscle cramps is calcium. As you already know, calcium is one of the essential parts of dairy ingredients. If you aren’t a milk fan, get your calcium through shakes, yogurt or through nutritional supplements.
Feeling good means taking care of your body first. Be mindful of the fuel you are feeding it and you should begin feeling better.
Ian is a nutrition enthusiast and also a contributing writer for a nutritional supplement site which compares and rates post workout supplements and bodybuilding supplements.
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