Mailbag: Restless Legs Ruining Your Sleep? Try THIS
By
Dr. Scott Olson, ND
Posted December 24, 2024
“What can I do to help my restless legs? They bother me in the daytime if I sit down for a while, but some nights, it keeps me up all night.”
– Looking for a Leg Up on Sleep
Hi Leg Up,
Few things are more frustrating than being nestled all snug in your bed, waiting for visions of sugarplums to dance in your head, only to be interrupted by legs that won’t lie still.
Restless Legs Syndrome (RLS) can really ruin your sleep. Fortunately, several natural remedies can help ease those symptoms.
When my patients come to me complaining about restless legs, I typically offer them some natural solutions to try first…
Magnesium supplements: Magnesium is crucial for muscle and nerve function. A deficiency can contribute to RLS symptoms. Magnesium-rich foods include lean meats, poultry, eggs, seafood, beans, peas, lentils, almonds, cashews, avocados, and spinach. Supplements are also available.
Iron: Low iron levels are associated with RLS. Increasing iron intake may ease the uncontrollable urge to move your legs if you’re iron deficient. Iron-rich foods include liver, red meat, and shellfish, like clams, oysters, and mussels. Iron supplements are also available but always check with your doctor before taking one.
Herbal remedies: In some cases, herbs, such as valerian root, horse chestnut, and Gingko Biloba, can relieve restless legs. Valerian also has mild sedative properties that may help with sleep.
Essential oils: When used topically (diluted in a carrier oil), calming essential oils such as lavender can help relax muscles and relieve restless legs so you can sleep.
Lifestyle modifications: Switching up some things in your daily routine could help keep your legs quiet longer.
- Regular exercise, particularly in the morning or afternoon
- Establishing a consistent sleep schedule
- Avoiding caffeine, alcohol, and nicotine, especially in the evening
- Practicing relaxation techniques like meditation or gentle yoga before bed
Hydrotherapy: Alternating between hot and cold water on the legs can help reduce symptoms. Try popping into a warm shower and finishing off with a cold rinse before bed.
Acupuncture: Some studies suggest acupuncture can provide relief from RLS symptoms.
Remember, what works for one person may not work for another. Also, finding the right combination of solutions to manage your symptoms may take some time.
On this Christmas Eve, I wish you a peaceful night’s sleep with calm, comfortable legs tonight and beyond.
P.S. The TRUE cost of daytime sleepiness is REVEALED!
Written By Dr. Scott Olson, ND
Nearly 25 years ago, failed mainstream medical treatments left Dr. Olson in constant pain – and his health in ruins. And that’s when he did something REVOLUTIONARY. He began his career in medicine – and dedicated his life to uncovering the true, underlying causes of disease.
Through his innovative medical practices in Tennessee and Colorado, Dr. Olson has helped cure countless seniors from across America of arthritis… heart disease… diabetes… and even cancer. All without risky prescription drugs or painful surgeries.
View More Free Articles
Ancient Wise Man's Gift Brings Modern Pain Relief
As we exchange gifts to celebrate Christmas today, we remember the biblical story of the Three Wise Men bearing gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh. While you might be hoping to find some gold in your stocking this year, it turns out that frankincense could be the REAL treasure—especially if you’re battling knee pain. Yes,...
The Simple Metabolic Health Hack You’re NOT Using
If you’re like most Americans, you don’t give much thought to your metabolism. But here’s a shocking statistic that might change your mind… One in three U.S. adults is walking around with hidden metabolic syndrome. This ticking time bomb is a cluster of conditions that can send your risk of heart disease, stroke, and type...
The Sunshine Vitamin's Surprising Heart Benefits Revealed
Most folks know that vitamin D is vital for bone health. And if you’re a regular Living Well Daily reader, you also know how critical it is for overall health. But now, incredibly, a new study has revealed something that could change how we think about the “sunshine vitamin” forever. Researchers uncovered evidence that this...
Discover How Gut Bugs Shape Your Brain Health
We’ve all experienced an intuitive “gut feeling” before. But what if I told you your gut is doing FAR more than just sending you hunches? A new study has uncovered a fascinating link between the bacteria in your digestive system and your brain health. It might just change everything we thought we knew about preventing...
Build a Stronger Immune System at Any Age
As we age our immune systems need a little extra TLC to keep us healthy and strong. But don’t worry, boosting your immunity doesn’t have to be complicated or expensive. In fact, some of the best immune-boosting strategies are simple habits you can incorporate into your daily routine. So, let’s dive into some tried-and-true tips...
Natural Solutions to Snoring
Regardless of whether you’re the snorer or the unfortunate bedmate, snoring is a source of stress for countless couples. The endless, rhythmic, sawing sounds can disrupt the rest of even the deepest sleepers. But before you resort to earplugs or separate bedrooms, let’s explore some natural ways to tackle snoring. Snoring isn’t just annoying. It...
Shedding New Light on Depression with this “Sunlight” Hack
You’ve likely heard of Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD). This form of the blues hits as the leaves fall and the days grow shorter. Well, new research reveals that the same therapy that helps many folks battling SAD feel better could be a ray of hope for those fighting other types of depression, too. Here’s what...
Mailbag: Reverse Atherosclerosis Naturally? Science Says Yes—Here's How
“What actually reverses heart clogging?” -Heartfelt Hi Heartfelt, I have good news. We used to think reversing arterial plaque buildup or “heart clogging” was impossible, but now we know better. When my own patients ask me about atherosclerosis (the medical term for clogged arteries), I explain that—while complete reversal can be challenging—research confirms that specific...
Study Pinpoints Foods That Send Disease Risk Soaring
We’ve all heard that old saying, “You are what you eat.” Well, it’s been around for so long because it’s true. And it turns out your dinner plate could secretly stoke the fires of disease in your body. A new study revealed a shocking truth about the American diet. This time it’s not about calories...
Feast Without Fear of Packing on the Pounds
With all the festive feasts and indulgent treats this holiday season, many of us are already bracing for the inevitable battle of the bulge. But is holiday weight gain really as unavoidable as we think? Let’s unwrap the truth behind this seasonal struggle (pun intended). And I’ll share some simple strategies to keep those extra...