Hello everyone! I'm new to the board and this is my second week on Atkins. I have a question that hopefully someone will know the answer to. I have been experiencing severe leg cramps when I wake up in the morning and stretch. I was almost in tears this morning. Since I've never had leg cramps before I'm wondering if this could be "Atkins related" and what I should do about it. I'm taking all kinds of supplements, including Potassium and drinking a lot of water. HELP! Thanks in advance.
Vicki in Houston

Hi, and welcome!

I don't know why, but it is sometimes a side effect of the low carb lifestyle to get leg cramps. I have gotten them when first starting - but they did go away after incorporating calcium, potassium, magnesium, flax oil into my diet through supplements. I can't say which of those helped specifically or if it's a combination. I do know if I drink more than a few alcoholic beverages, they trigger the leg cramps too.

I never had leg cramps but wanted to stop by to welcome you to the forum..

May I suggest that you start a weight losss personal journal here? You can find out how to start one by following this link...

http://forum.lowcarber.org/showthread.php?t=187389

Hello and welcome to the forum

I'm sure you'll find this site very informative. And the support you'll get here can't be beat!!!

Best of luck to you

Hi, Welcome

I have experienced leg cramps too. I sometimes still get them now. I don't know exactly what causes them. I am thinking a Vitamin deficiancy. Are you drinking plenty of water. I think sometimes when I don't drink enough fluid I get them. But, yes they are very painful. I also, get them in my feel when I excersize too much. They will go away though.