Question from Lou: replacing electrolytes: sometimes i get night cramps, especially after vigorous exercise. my doctor told me to take some stuff meant for babies that have diarrhea (i forget the name of it.) it seemed pretty disgusting, as do all such products (e.g., gatorade), as well as expensive. it seems like one should be able to take a pill containing enough electrolytes. i wonder what you folks recommend.
Lou
Answer from Linda O'Byrne: Hi Lou, if your doctor has recommended that you take electrolytes you don't have to necessarily get them from drinks like Gatorade which are high in sugar which I'd not recommend right before bed. You can get the infant drink, Pedialyte, which can be a sugar free version however it's mainly potassium that's recommended for night cramps so try eating a banana before bed. Also ensure that you're adequately hydrated all day long, so drink lots of water throughout the day, even more than the recommended 8 glasses if you're exercising vigorously. Also try taking Vitamin B12 in pill form which has been shown to help with night cramps. Hope this helps! Linda
Answer from Linda O'Byrne: Also Lou, ensure that you're stretching after exercise and try stretching the affected area a few times before you go to bed also. Linda