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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AnonYea sodium is not only an electrolyte but also many other purposes in The body for example Sodium is the main ingredient for depolarization of the muscle at the nueromuscular junction. Without salt you are less able to move and therefore pain will come has CRAMPS.
Here is a link to a good post about potassium to salt ratio http://www.eroids.com/forum/general/general-talk/something-you-probably-...