Leg Cramps Because of Vitamin Deficiency

Leg cramp is a short, involuntary contraction of a leg muscle.



Everyone experiences leg cramps or muscle cramps from time to time. It is not a serious issue but is very painful.



Cramps often occur at night when resting as a result of poor circulation of blood. It usually occurs in elderly people or others suffering from nutritional deficiencies and certain health disorders.

Some innocuous causes of leg cramps are body building, swimming and trapping feet in tight bedspread.



An essential link has long been established between leg cramps, vitamin deficiency and mineral deficiency. Its true that low intake of certain minerals and vitamins are major causes of leg cramps.

Vitamin B3 or Niacin in association with Vitamin B1, B2, B6 and biotin aids in breaking of carbohydrates, fats and proteins to produce energy and improve blood circulation.



Deficiency of Niacin or Thiamine may result in poor circulation and cause leg cramps.

Vitamin E soaks free radicals from the body that damage healthy muscles. Deficiency of this vitamin allows movement of free radicals in the body that irritates the muscle and cause leg cramps.

Vitamin C enhances the absorption of iron, calcium and magnesium.



These nutrients are responsible for controlling the production of enzymes and hormones, blood pressure, nerve transmission and muscle contraction. Deficiency in calcium or magnesium may lead to frequent occurrence of cramps.



Deficiency of Vitamin D also contributes to leg cramps as it decreases calcium absorption in the body.

To avoid leg cramps, it is essential to consume 1,500 mg/day. of calcium, 750 mg/day of magnesium, 400-1,000 IU of Vitamin E/day, 99mg/day of potassium, 100mg/ day of Vitamin B complex, 3000 mg/day of Vitamin C and 400 IU/day of Vitamin D. This is the recommended dietary level for normal adults to prevent leg cramps. The recommended dosage of these essential nutrients and vitamins enhance blood circulation that eventually prevents the occurrence of leg cramps.