Natural Help For Restless Leg Syndrome

Although Restless Leg Syndrome (RLS) is a little understood neurological disorder, it is sometimes classed as a sleep disorder because of the disruption it can cause at night. Also known as Ekbom’s syndrome, this misunderstood yet common condition causes uncomfortable sensations in the legs that are only calmed by restless movement and an uncontrollable urge to move the legs. It is estimated that about one in twenty people will suffer from RLS during their lifetime.

Typical symptoms of RLS include twitching or jerking, the sensation of something creeping beneath the skin, the sensation of pins and needles, a burning sensation, tingling, aching and pain. These sensations mainly affect the calf area of the leg, are usually worse during the late afternoons or evenings, and can be particularly strong when trying to go to sleep. As a result, RLS can lead to problems associated with sleep deprivation, such as anxiety and depression.

Although the cause of RLS is still unknown, there is some evidence linking it to nerve irritation when fatigued, stressed or anxious. It has also been linked with smoking, diabetes, stroke, respiratory illness, kidney problems and pregnancy. Treatment for Restless Leg Syndrome can be specific to each individual, however making a few changes to diet and lifestyle may alleviate some symptoms.

Include foods in your diet that are rich in potassium, such as dried apricots, bananas, avocados and potatoes. Include more calcium from sources such as leafy vegetables (brocccoli), sardines, almonds and Brazil nuts and low fat milk products. Also include more magnesium, which is found in many fruits and vegetables, whole grains, lentils and brown rice.

Limit or exclude caffeine: coffee, tea, chocolate, sodas, and even over-the-counter (OTC) medications may contain caffeine. Try cutting your consumption of caffeine-containing foods and medications to see if your condition improves. If you do take over the counter medications, such as certain cold medications and allergy pills, some contain mild stimulants that can result in jittery legs. Ask your pharmacist if the medications you are taking contain stimulants and whether there are any nonstimulating alternatives.

Moderate exercise may also help such as walking three times a week or some other form of low impact exercise such as aquafit or rebounding on a mini-trampoline. A warm bath or massage before bed helps to relax muscles. Bathing with AIM Cell Wellness Restorer™ in the bath can be beneficial as it contains magnesium which helps with fatigue, insomnia and muscle twitching. Magnesium helps the muscles relax and relieves stress to help provide you with a goods nights rest.

Supplements that may also help with RLS include folic acid, iron, co-enzyme Q10, gingko biloba and garlic. AIM products such as BarleyLife®, LeafGreens™, CellSparc 360®, GinkgoSense™ and Bear Paw Garlic® can help provide you with the extra nutrients your body needs to reduce the symptoms and sensations associated with Restless Leg Syndrome.

To learn more about the benefits and features of these AIM products as well as their suggested usage and whether they have any contraindications, please visit My AIM Store website at http://awealthofhealth.myaimstore.com/ where you can read more, view the FAQ’s, download a datasheet and even watch a video.

If you suffer from Restless Leg Syndrome it is always a good idea to consult with your health care provider before beginning natural therapy if you have any health issues or concerns, and always make sure you learn about products before you start taking them to make sure they are compatible with any medications or other supplements you may be taking.

For more information about Restless Leg Syndrome search on the internet or visit your local library. Although the cause of RLS has not yet been determined, changes in diet and lifestyle, exercise and supplementation can all help to alleviate some of the symptoms and lead to natural help for Restless Leg Syndrome.