Potassium

[Erin80]

I read that when you're on induction your potassium levels can drop, and because of that some people might get leg cramps. I have woken up with 2 leg cramps (calf cramps...owwwww!!!) just starting but I was able to stop it before it turned into a full cramp. I checked my multi vitamin that I take every day and it doesn't have any potassium in it. I bought potassium pills today at the drug store, but before I take them I want to make sure I should be taking them. Does anyone know anything about this? I already take a multivitamin and vitamin C.

[Bren]

Actually if your eating your green leafy vegies and those on the low glycemic list you should be getting enough potassium. How long have you been on induction and are you drinking enough water. Dehydration will cause leg cramps also.
What is the reccommended dose on your supplement?

[Erin80]

Hmmm..yeah I eat a salad almost every day and TONNES of peppers and mushrooms.....I am drinking a lot, but maybe not enough? The recommended dose is 1 a day and they are 50mg capsules.

[ValidRouge]

leg cramps can also come from a calcium/magnesium deficiency, too, instead of potassium.

avacado, serving to serving, compared to a banana has MORE potassium than the banana does.

I'd rather see people eating healthy vegetables and getting their potassium in a natural form than running out and supplementing.

Many, many times I see people who start supplementing with potassium when, in fact, they are dehydrated. It takes a *LOT* of water on Atkins to remain hydrated. The diet itself is a diuretic and if you are consuming foods/beverages (coffee is one) that has diuretic properties, you can become really dehydrated very quickly and your muscles will cramp....BAD. AND it'll cause constipation...BAD. Neither are fun experiences.

[Quitstretchin']

Have you tried SMART WATER? It is bottled water that has electrolytes in them but no sugar, etc....just pure water and minerals. This along with the greens may be helpful.