5 natural ways to improve muscle cramps
Muscle cramps are a common condition that occurs from sudden, involuntary contractions of one or more muscles in the body.
They often occur on the back of the leg, but also affect the thighs, abdominal wall, and other joints.
Their development is usually sudden, especially at night, and can last from a few seconds to 15 minutes.
They are characterized by a feeling of pain and stiffness in the affected area and, in some cases, they cause swelling of the muscle tissue under the skin.
In addition, although they do not present a serious health problem, their appearance can alert an imbalance in the body's electrolyte levels or dehydration.
For this reason, it is important to be careful, especially if they start to become a serious and recurring symptom.
The good news is that you can combat them naturally, as some remedies have properties and nutrients that promote muscle health.
Discover them!
1. The banana and kiwi smoothie against cramps
muscle cramps
Banana Kiwi Smoothie is an energy drink that can help increase performance during sports activities.
It contains high concentrations of potassium, an essential mineral in the prevention of muscle cramps.
Ingredients
1 ripe banana
A Kiwi
1 glass of almond milk (200 ml)
Consumption
Eat the smoothie 15 or 20 minutes before starting your exercise routine.
Also, if the cramps are nocturnal, drink it 30 minutes before going to sleep.
2. Apple cider vinegar
The anti-inflammatory and alkaline power of apple cider vinegar can be used as a supplement to improve muscle health.
This ingredient, which also provides essential minerals, improves circulation and optimizes the oxygenation process to prevent muscle contractions.
Ingredients
2 tablespoons of apple vinegar (20 ml)
1 glass of hot water (200ml)
Preparation
Dilute the cider vinegar in a glass of warm water.
Way of consuming
Take the drink on an empty stomach before going to sleep.
3. Ginkgo biloba infusion
Ginkgo biloba is a medicine that has become popular around the world for its anti-inflammatory, diuretic and toning effects.
Its infusion is a remedy that relaxes muscles and joints, preventing water retention in the tissues.
This reduces muscle stiffness and, by the way, prevents night cramps.
Ingredients
2 tablespoons of ginkgo biloba (20 g)
1 cup water (250ml)
Preparation
Boil a cup of water and add the ginkgo biloba.
Then leave to infuse for 10 or 15 minutes so that the plant extracts are released.
Then pass the drink through a colander and serve it.
Way of consuming
Have a cup of infusion after dinner.
4. Anti-cramp orange banana smoothie
The combination of the nutrients of banana and orange with natural yogurt allows us to obtain a remineralizing and energy drink, ideal to avoid cramps due to muscular efforts during sports activities.
These foods contain potassium, vitamin C and essential amino acids that strengthen the muscles to prevent contractions.
Ingredients
1 ripe banana
The juice of three oranges
Then 1 natural yoghurt (125 g)
Preparation
First, cut the banana into several pieces and insert it into the blender.
Then add the orange juice and yogurt.
Finally, blend at maximum speed until you get a creamy smoothie.
Way of consuming
Take the mixture before your sports activities.
As an option, you can also take it before dinner to prevent cramps at night.
5. Sour cherry juice
Natural tart cherry juice has diuretic and anti-inflammatory properties that help eliminate fluids retained in the tissues, thereby decreasing cramping episodes and muscle stiffness.
Its intake of essential minerals also promotes the balance of electrolyte levels, which is also essential for maintaining the muscles in good condition.
Ingredients
7 sour cherries
1 glass of water (200ml)
Preparation
To start, add the cherries to the blender and mix them with a glass of water.
However, avoid adding sugar or sweeteners so as not to affect their properties.
Way of consuming
Take this juice twice a day: in the morning and in the evening.
Keep in mind that, in addition to these remedies, it is essential to improve your eating habits and avoid the sedentary lifestyle.
Sometimes cramps are caused by the consequences suffered by the muscles due to the practice of bad habits.