All of us have suffered from muscle spasms at some point of time or the other. Taking painkillers to treat the condition may not be the greatest option. Instead one can make use of foods that help in relieving muscle spasms. These foods can be included in regular diet, so that one does not suffer from the painful spasms.

Involuntary contraction of a muscle belonging to a large muscle group is known as muscle spasm. It is seen that this condition affects frequently used muscles. The most commonly affected muscles are calf muscles, hamstrings, quadriceps, arms, etc. The most common cause of muscle spasm is overuse, which sets in the contraction of the muscle. When sufficient quantities of fluid is not provided to the muscles, it can also cause the muscle to go into spasm. In case of an injury, the muscle can also be affected with muscle spasm. Along with all these causes, one important cause of muscle spasms is deficiency of minerals. In most cases, it is the deficiency of potassium and calcium. Many women do suffer from muscle spasms during pregnancy, which is often triggered due to deficiency. Lifestyle and medications for different medical conditions can also cause muscle spasms. There are many people, who wonder what is the natural method, which can be used for treating the condition. The answer is to make use of foods to help muscle spasms. It is not only easy, but it also does not cost a dent in the pocket to take to these foods.

Foods for Muscle Cramps

In most cases, muscle spasms are caused as a result of the deficiency of minerals. Therefore, it is best to consume foods rich in these minerals, in order to treat the condition.

Potassium Rich Foods: A fruit that must be a part of the diet to combat muscle spasms is banana. Consuming a banana everyday will provide the body with the required quantities of potassium. Other than banana, fruits like prunes, apricots, dates, figs, kiwi fruit, orange, papaya, peach, raisins, etc. will also help in combating spasm symptoms. Consuming vegetables like potatoes, spinach, tomatoes, beetroot, lettuce, mushrooms, okra, etc. is also recommended for people with potassium deficiency. Lentils, sprouts, beans, peanuts, etc. are also rich in potassium, which prove to be beneficial for treating the condition.

Calcium Rich Foods: Along with potassium, deficiency of calcium is also known to cause muscle spasms. Hence, foods rich in calcium should also be a part of the diet. Dried figs, milk and milk products like yogurt, buttermilk, cottage cheese, etc., meat, eggs are natural muscle relaxants, which you will want to make use of. Almonds, flaxseed, sesame seeds, tofu, oats, parsley, etc. are also good sources of calcium.

Magnesium Rich Foods: Whole grains, nuts, beans are among the foods rich in magnesium, which must be a part of the diet of people, who suffer from magnesium deficiency. Likewise, green leafy vegetables, pumpkin, fruits like avocados, banana, apricots, etc. should also prominently figure in the diet. Fish, dairy products are also a good source of magnesium. If you consume aerated drinks more as compared to water, then you will want to reduce consumption of aerated drinks and ensure that you consume more water, so that your muscles do not experience spasms.

Vitamin E Rich Foods: Vitamin E also proves to be useful in treating muscle spasms. Among the foods for muscle spasms are vitamin E rich foods like wheat germ, vegetable oils, sunflower seeds, fish like herring, sardines, etc., turkey bacon, egg yolks, peanuts, hazelnuts, etc.

Vitamin C Rich Foods: Vitamin C helps in healing and repairing sore muscles. It is also helpful in building a strong immune system, which in turn is able to combat muscle spasms. Citrus fruits, Brussels sprouts, broccoli, sweet peppers, grapefruit, kiwi fruit, lychee, etc. are all a good source of vitamin C.

Along with these foods to help muscle spasms, there are some home remedies for muscle spasms, which you may want to try. Consuming sufficient quantities of water at regular intervals is equally important for treating muscle spasms. It is important keep the body well-hydrated at all times in order to counter muscle spasms.