Muscle cramps

Posted by: Jim M

Muscle cramps - 04/22/18 10:45 PM

Forgive me if this is a duplicate. I thought I posted it, but now, hours later, I do not see it.

I have had cramps from time to time and always atraibutee it to a hard hike with lots of elevation gain. Quadriceps, leg bicep, and calves. I generally stay hydrated and often eat salty snacks. But last week after a very easy hike I got cramps. I had a salty soup for dinner and I drank 16 ounces (half liter) of Gatorade when I hit the sack. I got up to pee in the night (seemed like a lot of pee so I assume I was not dehydrated) and had cramps in my legs again. I tried Calcium supplement with Vitamin D once and that seemed to help, but only did it once (small sample size, a statistician would say); any ideas?
Posted by: Pika

Re: Muscle cramps - 04/23/18 10:58 AM

Low potassium can cause cramping of the large muscles. Might be worth looking at.
Posted by: BZH

Re: Muscle cramps - 04/23/18 11:28 AM

yup I agree with Pika. Its easy to replace the electrolyte sodium, but potassium is bit harder
Posted by: 4evrplan

Re: Muscle cramps - 04/23/18 11:35 AM

Originally Posted By BZH
yup I agree with Pika. Its easy to replace the electrolyte sodium, but potassium is bit harder
Banana chips?

ETA: https://draxe.com/top-10-potassium-rich-foods/
Posted by: Bill Kennedy

Re: Muscle cramps - 04/23/18 02:04 PM

If it's a persistent problem, a visit to the doctor is probsbly advisable.

Thermotabs (often called "salt tablets") contain potassium as well as sodium and other electrolytes. Sold at Walmart and Walgreens, but not in all areas of the country:

http://www.numarkbrands.com/products/thermotabs/

REI sells these "Medi-Lyte" supplements in little packets in their first aid section (note there's no sodium):

https://www.mfasco.com/first-aid-supplies/electrolyte-replacement/medi-lyte-tablets-250-x-2.html

I keep a few of each in my first aid kit.