UPDATE - Terrible leg muscle cramping

[Guest guest]

The doctor ordered blood work and all levels are within normal. I am thinking

they really don’t know what to do.

Thanks for all the help. Its great to know so many people are here to help

either thru a kind word, experience, or thoughts.

Thanks again,

From: Jen

Sent: Friday, February 18, 2011 10:21 AM

Subject: [ ] Re: HELP!!! Terrible leg muscle cramping

Muscle cramps are caused by low potassium levels. Due to my other health

condition, my body does not hold on to potassium. I am on a large dose

prescription strength potassium supplement and still get low potassium symptoms

including muscle cramps.

Too high blood potassium can be just as dangerous as too low blood

potassium....but over the counter potassium supplements should not be enough to

increase your potassium levels to dangerous, unless you're taking a huge amount

of them. But potassium supplements is harsh on the stomach, so take with food.

Ideally though, its much better to get your potassium from diet.

Bananas are high in potassium, but not the highest actually, they're just the

one most people know about. I am allergic to bananas, so had to learn what other

foods are high in potassium. Dried apricots are one of the highest, raisins are

a good source as well. Most leafy green vegetables, cataloupe and avocados have

potassium. Milk has a decent amount if you can handle drinking 12-16 ounces at a

time. Another option is V8 juice, or the Naked fruit smoothies have a large

amount as well. Also Ralphs/Pavillions has the carb master yogurts that has a

decent amount of potassium but you need two of them.

A lot of our society with the invention of fast food and junk food, does not get

enough potassium in our diets. Just making sure you have plenty of fruits and

veggies will ensure you have enough potassium.

And if his leg cramps don't improve in a couple of days with some increased

potassium in his diet, then you should definitely check with his doctor. Too low

potassium can cause an irregular heart beat (happens to me often), temporary

paralysis and even heart attack if it really dips. A simple blood test will tell

what his potassium level is at.

Jen

mailto:singlemomx2%40gmail.com

> >

> > I'm afraid to take potassium supplements because I've been told that

> > it can be dangerous. I can't remember why it's supposed to be

> > dangerous, though. I bought some by mistake, but then was afraid to

> > take it.

> >

> > Sue

> >

>

> I am new here, not a health Professional, but have been taking a small ammount

of Potassium for some time. My health professional takes blood tests every 4

months to be sure it is at a safe level. People who are taking diuretics will

loose potassium , magnesia and other needed nutrients which are very necessary

to their life. If one is not able to get enough Potassium rich food for some

reason, (do a search) then the supplement is a good idea. I would not just go

and get an OTC unless having been tested and advised by my health pro.

>

> Best to you, Lee

>