I'm starting to get those painful leg cramps during my sleep recently. The cramps reminded me of my younger days when I had frequent leg cramps during sleep and when I was learning swimming in the pool...
Though I know this is pretty common during pregnancy (esp 2nd and 3rd trimester), I hope it doesn't come so frequently! I can't stand the pain. Ouch!
Possible cause of cramps
• Heart, kidneys, and circulatory system work extra hard to help function normally during pregnancy, and muscles, which are bearing the increasing weight of the pregnancy feel the strain too. So as a result, tired leg muscles may seize up and cramp in protest.
• Too much phosphorus (found in processed meat, snack foods, and soda) and too little calcium and potassium circulating in blood can also cause muscle spasms.
• As uterus expands, it can put pressure on the nerves leading from trunk to your legs.
Prevention
• Eat a banana or drink a glass of milk before bed for a quick calcium and potassium boost (I've tried this and it seems to work for me so far :D)
• Avoid standing or sitting with legs crossed for long periods of time.
• Rotate ankles and wiggle toes when sit, eat dinner, or watch TV.
• Stretch calf muscles several times before going to bed.
Related Posts:
Into my 2nd trimester
Monday, March 09, 2009
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