Cramping. It happens most often at night (especially leg cramps) and can last seconds or even minutes. 

As it pertains to our program, there reasons contributing to cramping that we uncover and by addressing these reasons, you will in turn bring further health benefits to the forefront of your wellness journey. 

One such reason can be attributed to insufficient blood flow. Vascular disease and medications for them (such as statins) are reason enough to cause cramping. 

Another potential cause is electrolyte imbalance (for cell communication). Deficiencies in minerals such as sodium, magnesium, chloride, potassium, calcium, phosphates, and bicarbonates can cause cramping. Depleted levels cause nerve cells to become more sensitive thus leading to pressure on the nerve endings which then causes muscle spasms. 

While on the program, hydration is important in the release of toxins stored within the fat. With more hydration comes more urination, so a loss of electrolytes is expected. This is due to decreased levels of blood sugar and thus a decrease in the hormone insulin. 

Dehydration is also among the reasons for cramping. Reduced sodium and insulin levels with increased urination as well as poor water absorption leads to dehydration. This will lead to cramping. While on the program, water absorption will eventually be rejuvenated, and this is another level of wellness achievement. 

Also, diuretics, like medications or coffee, can also cause dehydration. Medications such as birth control, allergy medications and anti-inflammatories (suppressants), asthma medications (inhalers/puffers, corticosteroids, etc.), and statins for cholesterol. 

Other factors to consider that lead to cramping are a sedentary lifestyle, diabetes, hypoglycemia, hypo/hyperthyroidism, as well as kidney, liver, and vascular issues. 

TIPS TO PREVENT CRAMPING:

1. Take in whole foods naturally that are rich in potassium while on Release Phase such as:

• Swiss chard
• Spinach 
• Onions
• Tomatoes 
• Beet Greens 
• Mushrooms 
• Broccoli
• Goldenberries 
• Avocado (ADD while on Sustain phase)

2. Take in whole foods rich in magnesium while on Release Phase such as:

• Broccoli 
• Arugula 
• Oysters
• Black beans
• Vegetables and dark leafy greens
• ADD while on Sustain Phase:
• Pumpkin seeds
• Brazilian nuts
• Cashews 
• Almonds 
• Flaxseed 

3. Take our high quality MEGA VIT/MIN.
4. Add Himalayan salt to foods and a pinch in your drinking water (a squeeze of lemon adds to the effectiveness).
5. Drink required water according to chart provided.
6. Mild walking or yoga to stay in action. No excessive exercise. 
7. Stay off unnecessary diuretics like coffee. *NOTE (do not reduce or eliminate medications unless under the specific direction and recommendations of your health care practitioner).
8. And, of course, no alcohol while on the program. Keep in mind that while life after the program allows for the return of all the pleasures you would like to return to, we advise you understand the role alcohol plays in muscle cramping.