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.
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