How to Prevent and Treat Muscle Cramps

We have all been there, dealing with pinching tension in our muscle that we just cannot seem to get rid of. It’s annoying and often painful! If you have felt this before, you probably have experienced a muscle cramp. Muscle cramps are extremely common. If you are starting to exercise or if you are changing your diet, they are even more likely. It is important to understand the causes of muscle cramps and how to treat and prevent them!

What causes muscle cramps?

Muscle cramps can be the result of dehydration. If you are working out more and sweating more, but are not consuming enough water, your muscle cramps could be caused by dehydration. Especially in this August heat, working out outside can be way more dehydrating!

Muscle cramps can also be caused by an overall lack of important nutrients! Diets that are deficient in potassium, magnesium, or calcium can be a cause of muscle cramps throughout your body. If you experience muscle aches frequently, try to consume more natural foods with these nutrients.

We all know that muscle cramps can be caused by overuse. If you’ve just started working out again, you may be overworking your muscles! Take a rest day and let your body relax and be sure to eat enough protein so that your muscles can recover!

How can I avoid muscle cramps?

Muscle cramps are bound to happen. If you stay hydrated and eat a healthy diet you will be less likely to get muscle cramps. Water and important nutrients help your body work the way it is supposed too. Water keeps your muscles contracting smoothly and avoids muscle irritation. Make sure you are drinking water intermittently throughout your workout and staying hydrated throughout the day. It is also important to stretch. Stretching before and after activity helps warm up and de-stress your muscles, so they will feel less fatigued.

How to treat the occasional muscle cramp?

If you do get a muscle cramp, which will likely happen at some point, the first step to take is stretching out the muscle. Doing this will help the muscle contract and work the cramp out. Next, drink a glass of water. This will help rehydrate your body and prevent a future cramp. If your muscle cramp feels severe, you can also take a warm bath. It will help to relax your muscles and relieve the stress and tension.

If you’re getting back into fitness and turning to a healthier lifestyle, I’d love to help you with your journey! Please feel free to contact me! I can help you get on track with food, fitness, and a healthier approach to living.