Restless legs syndrome (RLS) is a movement disorder identified by an irresistible urge to move your legs. People with RLS have a low quality of life. Long periods of sitting or lying down may trigger the symptoms of RLS. However, performing effective natural solutions for restless leg syndrome can keep the symptoms at bay.
Studies and surveys
- According to recent estimates of the US National Library of Medicine and National Institute of Health, it affects 5% to 20% of adults. It often has a substantial impact on daily activities and quality of life.
- Cross-sectional studies have shown that participants with restless legs syndrome have a significantly higher prevalence to diabetes, depression, a lower mental health score and cardiovascular disease than people without RLS.
Is restless leg syndrome underdiagnosed or overhyped?
Most print articles and websites define RLS as a common condition that is undertreated and underdiagnosed to encourage people who experience hostile conditions to get professional medical assistance.
However, according to the 2006 Public Library of Science (PLOS) case study, RLS has been overhyped by Drug Company marketing campaigns. For people suffering from milder issues, these symptoms are just the transient experiences of everyday life.
Natural solutions for restless leg syndrome
Treatment of restless leg syndrome is initially directed towards any underlying illness. For instance, blood tests can reveal if you’re suffering from an iron deficiency or other disease.
Here are some doctor’s proven restless leg syndrome natural solutions that can provide you with immediate relief from restless leg syndrome:
- Moving your legs by walking around the house or engaging in other forms of physical activity.
- Gently rub or massage your legs.
- Perform gentle calf stretches.
- Quit smoking and alcohol.
- Wear compression socks or leg wraps that apply gentle, consistent pressure to your legs.
- Take a hot bath to relax the leg muscles.
- Foot wraps that put pressure underneath the foot.
- Daily mediation, particularly a full or shortened version of body-scan meditation.
- Apply hot or cold compresses to your legs.
- Use an RLS wand that is made with precisely formulated ingredients to cure the symptoms of RLS syndrome.
People who experience severe or persistent restless leg syndrome require remedies that offer more long-term relief. Such treatments include:
- Lifestyle changes.
- Medications and supplements.
Food to add to your diet if you have RLS
- Add iron supplements to your diet: according to the National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute, a lack of iron or the inaccurate use of iron in the brain can cause restless leg syndrome. Various conditions can impact iron levels, including:
- Kidney failure.
- Diabetes.
- Peripheral neuropathy.
- Iron deficiency.
- Rheumatoid arthritis.
You can treat iron deficiency and reduce restless leg syndrome with natural solutions by eating more iron-rich foods, such as:
- Spinach and other dark leafy greens.
- Seafood.
- Dried fruits.
- Red meat and pork.
- Iron-fortified cereals.
- Add folate and magnesium to your diet: restless leg syndrome can be caused by folate or magnesium deficiencies. These nutrients are critical to nerve impulse conduction and proper muscle contraction.
Food rich in folate include:-
- Black-eyed peas.
- Whole wheat pasta.
- Rice and quinoa.
- Brussels sprouts.
- Lentils and beans.
Food rich in magnesium include:
- Soy milk.
- Almonds.
- Black beans.
- Peanuts.
- Spinach.
- Cashews.
Food to eliminate from your diet if you have RLS
Foods and beverages that contain caffeine can stimulate your nerves and aggravate restless leg syndrome. Therefore, it’s better to avoid coffee, tea, chocolate and energy drinks.
You should also limit fattening items, such as fried foods, soda, processed foods and food high in sugar.
According to the US National Library of Medicine National Institutes of Health, people who are obese are at a higher risk of restless leg syndrome because obesity can lead to diabetes, cardiovascular disease and lower dopamine receptors.
Some people confess that eliminating gluten eases restless leg syndrome. Gluten is a protein found in wheat, barley, rye, bread, soups, salad dressings and baked foods.
How to get rid of restless leg syndrome if you’re pregnant?
According to the Journal of Midwifery & Women’s Health, up to 26% of pregnant women have restless leg syndrome. However, the exact cause isn’t clear although low dopamine levels, changing hormones and nutrient deficiencies may be responsible.
If you are pregnant and have RLS symptoms, talk with your doctor about getting your iron levels checked. If they are low, your doctor will recommend eating more iron-rich foods or taking iron supplements.
If your lifestyle changes don’t help, your doctor may prescribe opioids or anti-epileptic drugs. However, all these drugs pass through the placenta to your unborn baby so use the least amount necessary, for the shortest amount of time.
In many cases, pregnancy-related RLS goes away on its own after giving birth to your baby.
The bottom line
As we age, we start losing magnesium which causes cramping in the legs and might lead to restless leg syndrome. Although there is no permanent cure for RLS, the condition usually responds well by performing effective natural solutions for restless leg syndrome.
Revamp your diet, avoid stimulants, develop a good sleeping habit and stay active throughout the day to reduce the severity and frequency of your RLS symptoms.