Top 5 Foods for Leg Cramps

Leg cramps can be incredibly painful but are not usually a serious illness. They may be caused by several things, so what works best to get rid of them will depend on the underlying cause. If you get leg cramps at night, they are called recumbency cramps and are caused by muscle contractions. If you get leg cramps after exercising, you could be dehydrated. In either case, leg cramps can be caused by an electrolyte or mineral imbalance in the body.

Foods for Natural Relief

To replenish electrolytes and minerals in the body, one of the best ways to do this is through food. You may have to experiment to find the most effective combination or strategy, but we’ve listed a few items so you know what foods are good for leg cramps.

1. Bananas

It is most commonly said that bananas are good for leg cramps. They can provide you with potassium, promotes muscular function, but potassium also protects our nervous system. You can additionally get this from certain types of citrus fruits and melons. To use of bananas for your muscle cramps correctly, eat a banana before or during your workout to avoid cramps.

2. Sweet Potatoes

Sweet potatoes are a sweet and savory food that contains complex carbohydrates, which keeps you energized and satisfied longer. They are easy to cook so you can take advantage of sweet potatoes for muscle cramp relief. Whether you roast, fry, or bake them, sweet potatoes are a simple snack with compound benefits.

3. Avocado

Contrary to belief, this is one of the best foods for muscle cramps. Avocados are full of heart-healthy fats, and a good serving of avocado has a high amount of potassium- one of the electrolytes lost when sweating. A lack of potassium can be a primary reason for muscle cramps. Use several slices of avocado on your next sandwich or salad to relieve your muscle cramps naturally.

4. Oatmeal

Oatmeal is another great choice if you are wondering what foods are good for muscle cramps. Oatmeal has a large amount of potassium and can relax your muscles. Not only does it work for breakfast, but oatmeal is great for a small snack or meal at any time of the day. Additionally, if you are trying to lose weight, oatmeal helps you achieve it. And because it’s a whole grain food, it can give you a feeling of being full, naturally.

5. Spinach And Kale

When it comes to what foods are good for muscle cramps, leafy greens and veggies are always something you should add to your diet. Spinach and kale are a great source of calcium, which is essential for muscle function and can ease your muscle pains. If eating it whole doesn’t appeal to you, then you can blend it into a smoothie with some almond or coconut milk and fruit.