Dear Dr. SerVaas,
I have a comparable problem to Jane (Sept./Oct. 2008 edition). I had severe muscle cramps in my hands and, after some investigation, thought I might be deficient in the mineral potassium. I found a list of high-potassium veggies and started eating one yam daily. Since that time, no cramps. I eat bananas, too. She might also try putting her hands in hot (not burning) water for 10 to 15 minutes. Good luck, Jane.
Dear Dr. SerVaas,
This is my answer to the woman who was having the problem with cramps. My physical therapist recommended drinking tonic water. It works for me. Of course it is the quinine in the water that is the cure. My doctor gave me a prescription for quinine. But not every pharmacy stocks it, and I find the water is better for my budget.
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I started getting cramps in my lower legs and upper feet. I found that immediately taking 250mg of magnesium got rid of the cramps in less than 5 minutes. Now I make sure that I take at least 1 part magnesium to every 2 parts of calcium i.e. at least 500mg magnesium with 1000mg calcium. Magnesium is very important to the ability of muscles to relax after contracting per my old nutrition guru Adele Davis.