Restless leg syndrome (RLS) is known as a neurological condition accompanied by an uncontrollable urge to move the legs. This urge to move is usually associated with uncomfortable sensations described as creeping, gnawing, creepy-crawly or itchy. RLS symptoms usually occur when you are lying down. RLS symptoms usually improve when you begin to move your legs, and worsen when you stop. RLS symptoms are worse in the evening, especially when you are lying down for long periods. While medications exist, there are several changes you can make to your diet to help manage your RLS.
Avoidance
According to health site Diet-and-health.net, consuming caffeinated beverages will most likely delay and intensify your symptoms later in the day. It is best to avoid any caffeine-containing products such as chocolate and drinks such as coffee, tea and sodas. Drinking alcohol has been shown to increase the intensity and length of symptoms for most people. Avoiding alcohol is your best solution.
Minerals
Many people suffering from Restless Leg Syndrome show signs of iron deficiency and anemia. You can raise your iron levels by taking iron supplements (10 mg daily) or adding foods rich in iron to your diet. Iron-rich foods consist of cereals, beans, spinach, liver and tofu. Restless Leg sufferers also show a magnesium deficiency, known to increase neuromuscular excitability and cause RLS. You can take a daily magnesium tablet (400 mg to 1000 mg) or add foods such as nuts, peas, bananas, avocados and whole grains to your diet.
Fatty Acid Nutrients
You can also add essential fatty acids to your diet. Fatty acids let more calcium and oxygen reach your leg muscles. You can take a specific form of vitamin E known as Vitamin E2 (2 g to 3 g a day) and Calcium Lactate (600 mg daily) as supplements to help improve circulation. Foods rich in Vitamin E are hazelnuts, almonds, popcorn and wheat germ. You can add calcium lactate to your diet by consuming more dairy and soy.
Folic Acid
If a doctor determines that your RLS is caused by a circulatory problem, you might benefit from adding more folic acid to your diet. Folic acid and B12 help strengthen and elasticize vessel walls. You can take between 5 mg to 50 mg of folic acid per day through food or supplements. RLS may be an early indication of a folic acid deficiency, which if often hereditary. You can add foods rich in folic acid such as eggs, lentils, sweet potatoes, cabbage and oranges to your diet.
Tags: your diet, diet Fatty, folic acid, folic acid, foods rich, lying down
