Helping Restless Legs Syndrome (RLS) With Diet

By Stewart Hare

Restless legs syndrome (RLS) or Ekbom’s syndrome is a misunderstood common condition which causes the legs and sometimes the arms to twitch just before going to sleep; this can cause problems with insomnia. Around one in twenty people suffer from restless legs syndrome (RLS) during their life, it tends to affect women more than men especially pregnant women and middle aged women, other groups that tend to suffer from restless legs syndrome (RLS) are those suffering from kidney disease, nerve diseases, rheumatoid arthritis and varicose veins.

Typical symptoms of restless legs syndrome (RLS) are a creeping sensation beneath the skin in the affected limbs, this sensation can be accompanied by pins and needles, twitching, a burning sensation, aching, tingling or pain and an urge to more the legs. These symptoms tend to affect the calf area of the leg but can also affect the arms. The symptoms tend to occur when in periods of rest, sleep and tiredness, typically before going to sleep. The exact cause of restless legs syndrome (RLS) is unknown but it has been linked to nerve irritation when fatigued, stressed or anxious. It has also been linked with smoking, diabetes, pregnancy, stroke, respiratory illness and kidney problems.

Dietary change can help with restless legs syndrome (RLS), cutting out sugar, refined flour, alcohol, caffeine and eating small but regular meals throughout the day especially a small snack before going to bed can help with restless legs syndrome (RLS). These meals need to include plenty of fruit and vegetables, whole grains, fish and nuts and seeds.

If you are a smoker and suffering from restless legs syndrome (RLS) then it will help if you quit smoking.

Good supplements to take are iron, folic acid, co-enzyme Q10, extracts of ginko biloba and garlic tablets.

Acupuncture and magnet therapy are also worth trying to help with restless legs syndrome (RLS).

The following supplements may help if you are suffering from Restless legs syndrome (RLS).

• Co-enzyme Q10
• Extracts of ginko biloba
• Folic acid
• Garlic tablets
• Iron
• Vitamin E
  

Stewart Hare C.H.Ed Dip NutTh
Advice for a healthier natural life.