Well firstly I have to apologise as this month’s blog is slightly late! “What”, I hear you cry, …… “I’ve been sat at home waiting for it to come out “ ….. I’m sure that’s not really the case and you’ve probably not even realised its late. However, as I’m an honest person, I thought I’d tell you!

Its late for two reasons. Firstly, I’ve been on holiday which was fabulous. Having not been away for a few years the Other Half and I went to Snowdonia and had a lovely time. It is absolutely gorgeous and gave us just the right about of peace and tranquillity we were seeking. And, yes of course we climbed the mountain (ohh my legs did ache the next day!). The second reason is I’ve just been very busy!

Earlier this month I undertook some treatments for two lovely ladies who were sisters. Victoria had organised for her and her sister to have some pamper treatments followed by vintage high tea at Mad Henry’s Vintage Tea Room – a bit of chill time before her sister’s forthcoming wedding. What a thoughtful thing to do.

Anyway, whilst undertaking the treatment Victoria stated that she suffered with cramp in her calf muscle. “You need to eat a banana regularly” I said, knowing they helped with cramp and also eating them myself. “I don’t like them” Victoria replied. I was a bit stumped to then think of some alternative foods. However, I did say to Victoria that I would research and let her know. This then got me thinking and I thought I would put it in this month’s blog in case others also find useful.

What is cramp?

A muscle cramp is an involuntarily and forcibly contracted muscle that does not relax. There are a variety of types and causes of muscle cramps. Muscle cramps may occur during exercise, at rest, or at night, depending upon the exact cause (which isn’t always known). Dehydration is a common cause of muscle cramps.

How do you stop a cramp?

Relax the cramping muscle. Stop any activity that may have induced the cramp and lightly stretch the muscle, gently holding the stretch. You could also massage the muscle while or after you stretch, and maybe apply a heating pad to the area after stretching.

What can we do?

1. Prevent Electrolyte Imbalances. A potassium and/or magnesium deficiency can contribute to muscle spasms.
2. Stretch and Massage Your Muscles regularly/daily.
3. Stay Hydrated.
4. Use Ice or Heat Packs on Sensitive Muscles.
5. Fix Your Posture.
6. Take a Bath with Epsom Salt.

Do bananas help prevent leg cramps?

It is true that bananas do contain potassium which boots muscular function and protects the nervous system. It is also true that potassium deficiency can be implicated in leg and other muscle cramps in some cases. But bananas are far from being the richest natural source of potassium available.

What to eat to help?

A daily serving of a high-potassium food—a handful of dried fruits; a glass of tomato juice, citrus juice, or milk; a slice of melon or an orange can help banish leg cramps and prevent their recurrence. Other foods include: celery, yoghurt, oatmeal and beans.

These tips may help prevent muscle cramps:

1. Drink plenty of water and other fluids (herbal teas), enough so that your urine is light yellow or clear like water

2. Limit or avoid drinks with alcohol.

3. Make sure you are eating healthy foods that are rich in calcium, potassium, and magnesium.

That all for now, enjoy the rest of your August …… its going so quickly.

Sarah Butler Signature