Fatigue/Cold legs

[arsmith19]

I started a low carb diet a week ago and I have never been so tired in my life. So far, excercise has been out of the question. I am physically exhausted and it takes every ounce of strength I have to get myself to work every day. My legs feel like lead and they are cold all the time, even in a hot bath. Has anyone else experienced anything like this?

[tamarian]

Not sure about the cold legs, but fatigue and leg cramps are not unusual in the first week, vitamins helps with that particularly potassium. Hope this helps.

Wa'il

[Deb]

Dear Arsmith19, Your legs are cold/heavy and you are exhausted because of a potassium deficiency. When you low-carb, you lose a lot of sodium(connected to water retention)and potassium. If you are not taking medications for blood pressure etc. that would hold onto potassium instead of releasing it into your urine, you need to take a potassium supplement. Probably 50mg a day would do but be sure to call your doctor or get advice from a pharmasist. Read the section in "Protein Power" that answers questions about the low carb diet and it's effects on the different systems of the body. You'll find it informative.

Deb