Leg cramps are quite common during pregnancy. They could occur in response to you carrying extra weight, changes in circulation or due to mineral deficiencies. It is thought a deficit of calcium can cause cramps though naturopaths also consider magnesium deficiency as another possible cause.
- Increase your fluid intake to 2-3 litres daily.
- Eat foods high in calcium and magnesium including spinach, broccoli, tofu, dairy products, sardines, tahini, cooked egg yolks, watercress, dried figs, cashew nuts, parsley and silverbeet
- Massage improves circulation both within the cramping muscle and throughout the body.
- Regular exercise encourages circulation.
- Try sleeping with your feet raised higher than your head. You may wish to add padding at the foot of your bed or raise the bed itself.
- Reflexology helps improve circulation of blood and nerve supply and has been known to reduce and prevent cramping.
- Prepare a compress using lavender essential oil to apply to the affected area.