Muscle Cramps from Sodium Loss on Keto Diet
Over 20 weeks on keto diet with only occasional carb refeeds (kind of as needed if my strength really takes a hit). Lean meats, fatty meats, eggs, small spinach salad or broccoli plus whey isolate 0 carb protein shakes is typical daily intake.
Plus 2 gal a day of DISTILLED water.
Two days ago fingers began to cramp - thumb would 'stick' to index finger and I would have to pry them apart with opposing hand.
Yesterday, any muscle I would tense or flex just to reach down and pick something up would cramp like a charley horse. Couldn't even roll over in bed without whole body cramps and muscle spasms.
Tried super dose of potassium chloride (salt substitute) - no relief. Calcium citrate = nothing, magnesium = nada
Got ready to head to ER. Final call to nutritionist at gym - tablespoon of salt in glass of water - sounds like a sodium deficiency. 10 min later - pain and cramping gone.
Word of advice to those on keto diets - make sure you are getting enough salt. Anyone ever experience a sodium deficiency? Didn't think it was possible.
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It sounds like your diet was missing elements [obvious statement]
I have done and do crb cycling and IF as part of my diet and nutrtion and can suggest that you take a good electrolyte blend post workout - that should address your sodium needs.
It happen to me. Drinking tons of water while on dbol and lowered my salt intake. Took a hot bath, tried to sit up and stomach muscle cramped so bad I almost through up. Feet cramped, arm and chest before looking online because pottasium was doing nada. Finally like you, salt did the trick.