Beat the Heat … Cramps!

Mardi, Mai 11, 2010 - 10:09

When the weather heats up and humidity sores we are all on the lookout to prevent dehydration. We’ve been taught to drink up and replace lost fluids and electrolytes. But how do we prevent the muscle cramping that can also occur during this weather? Recently it has been suggested that diluted pickle juice, mustard or vinegar can help fight off exercise-related cramping.

Cramps can be caused by a lack of acetylcholine, the neurotransmitter that stimulates your muscles to work. Mustard and pickle juice have acetic acid, which helps the body make more acetylcholine which loosens muscle tension. Apple cider vinegar is high in potassium and can help with muscle cramps caused by potassium deficiency.

While these home remedies have much anecdotal evidence, research is still being done to validate the claims.

Reference:
(2010). Combat Cramping. Lacrosse Journal, 34(1), 65.