2024-01-29 10:00:03
Every Monday, we find the nutrition column of Binetou Cheikh Seck, dietitian nutritionist at NutrIDEAL Dietetic Cabinet in Dakar, Senegal. This week, she talks to us about muscle cramps.
What is a muscle cramp?
Cramps are strong muscle contractions that are involuntary, extremely painful, but fortunately short-lived. They usually occur on the calves and legs.
Are there individuals at greater risk of muscle cramps than others?
High-level or ordinary athletes: we have all seen marathon runners or tennis players writhing in pain because of a cramp. Elderly people and pregnant women are also at greater risk of cramps than average.
There is apparently a link between diet and cramps, that is to say that certain dietary factors can promote the occurrence of cramps, which ones?
First, dehydration, or quite simply when the body lacks water, is a notorious factor, especially in periods of high heat. People who are susceptible to cramps should make a point of drinking enough water in small sips throughout the day. I am thinking particularly of the elderly because their feeling of thirst decreases with age. I advise them to always have a bottle of water on hand so they don’t forget to drink.
How much water is adequate to avoid cramps?
Also read:
Food: stress, a factor of malnutrition
Food: five false beliefs or “food myths”
Food and dermatology: how to properly nourish your skin?
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