Cramps during Pregnancy

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.

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