Hello everyone,

I am looking for some kind of recommendations on supplements to take during induction. Yesterday and today I noticed my legs cramping up and im assuming that is due to the lack of potassium(SP?) I know I cant eat bananas and read you will have to take a supplement for this, but I just want to make sure I take a "Good" supplement meaning one that doesnt have anything in it I shouldnt be taking but dont know what it is.

So can anyone recommend anything from maybe like a grocery store (Albertsons, Safeway,) if they carry anything or maybe a GNC? Im gonna go get some after work pending recommendations.

Also are there any other supplements I should be taking during induction of Atkins right now? If so, please let me know and recommend something to.

TIA,
Whiteice

I use a bit of Morton's Lite Salt (contains Potassium) at each meal and have never experienced the leg cramps.

I just started today taking calcuim & magnisium, I think this helps with cramps. I am also taking potassium because my arms are falling asleep at night. The sales lady also told me that potassium can increase your energy on a low carb diet. I also started taking L-Glutamine for achy legs during exercise.

Hi there Whiteice,

Yes, I agree that you need potassium, calcium and magnesium.

Low carbing makes us lose more water than usual, and we lose electrolytes along with the water.

Low potassium can give a weak, tired feeling, along with heaviness in the limbs.
You can either use a salt replacement such as No Salt, and just sprinkle it on your food, or you can take tablets. The Drs Eades (of Protein Power) recommend taking about 400mg per day. It's best to take the tablets with food, or it can irritate your tum.
And anyone taking diuretics or blood pressure meds should check with their pharmacist before supplementing with potassium.

Magnesium is the one that stops leg cramps. But it works best when you are getting enough potassium, as well as calcium. Calcium and magnesium work best when taken in a 2 cal:1 mag formula. I believe you can get 333:167 tablets. 3 of those a day will prevent leg cramps. You might find it helps to take the last one before bed time.

Cheers.

Rosebud

I have noticed slight calf cramping during my best periods of weight loss.
I kinda view it as a "good sign"

Unfortunately potassium supplements supply a very low dosage. I usually drink my potassium in one of two forms. I either drink the Atkins RTD shakes or drink a glass of Soy Slender Chocolate milk. The Soy Slender tastes delish.

I was taking potassium supplements but they only have about 99mg per pill.

OG