Potassium to the rescue for cramping

August 12, 2011 By

DEAR DR. GOTT: A patient wrote to you complaining about constant cramping. I had a similar problem and tried many things for it. None of them worked as well as the following: Before going to bed at night, eat a banana and drink a glass of milk. Also take a glass of milk to bed to drink in case you get cramps. Try to eat another banana during the day.

This has helped me and others I’ve suggested it to, so please pass my suggestion along.

DEAR READER: Potassium is involved in muscle control, nerve function and controlling blood pressure. It also works with sodium to maintain water balance in our bodies. [Read more...]

Filed Under: Daily Column, Leading Letter Tagged With: ,

Muscle spasms linked to vitamin D usage

December 1, 2010 By

DEAR DR. GOTT: I read your article on severe cramping and muscle spasms. I took 1,000 IU of vitamin D with my calcium for 10 months. I was up from 10 to 20 times a night with severe, excruciating cramps. Then I ran out of vitamin D and didn’t take it for a couple of days. I had no cramps during this time. I tried a lower dose of D two more times. The cramps started immediately. I stopped the D again and am finally cramp-free.

It’s strange but true. People should look into their meds, even if cramps and spasms aren’t listed as a side effect. Also, if I get my vitamin D naturally, why do I need a supplement to help absorb calcium?
[Read more...]

Filed Under: Daily Column, Leading Letter Tagged With: , , ,

Touting the virtues of vitamin E

October 14, 2010 By

DEAR DR. GOTT: Many years ago, I suffered from frequent cramps in my legs and toes, mostly at night. At the suggestion of an older relative, I took a vitamin E capsule, which she said would relieve the pain. Much to my surprise, the pain was gone about five minutes after taking it.

Twelve years ago, I had radial-nerve surgery, which was successful. I was able to use my arm and hand without any problems. However, if I engaged in an activity such as playing cards or knitting, where my hand was in the same position for any length of time, my hand cramped up and was painful. I tried the vitamin E capsule (400 IU) twice a day and very rarely have cramping anywhere in my body. If I do have a problem, I take an extra capsule immediately with the same result.
[Read more...]

Filed Under: Daily Column, Leading Letter Tagged With: , , , ,