Muscle cramps can occur year-round, but have you noticed they seem more frequent during the summer months? These “heat cramps” are often experienced by people who sweat excessively or engage in outdoor activities in warmer weather.
Selvan Naicker, Brand Manager for CrampEase®, explains that muscle cramps happen due to sudden, involuntary contractions of one or more muscles. These spasms often result in pain and temporary immobility. Heat cramps, specifically, are usually caused by dehydration and a loss of electrolytes triggered by high temperatures. However, Naicker cautions that while drinking water can address dehydration, it may also dilute the body’s essential nutrients if not paired with adequate electrolyte replenishment.
To maintain proper electrolyte levels, consider incorporating potassium, magnesium, and calcium-rich foods like bananas, oranges, leafy greens, nuts, seeds, and dairy into your diet. Additionally, a supplement such as CrampEase® Fizzy can help replenish key minerals like calcium, sodium, potassium, and magnesium, offering relief from muscle cramps and discomfort. It’s an ideal solution to help keep your body free from heat cramps during warmer months.
While dehydration and electrolyte loss are the primary culprits of heat cramps, other factors such as increased outdoor physical activity, heat exposure, and muscle fatigue can also contribute. To prevent and manage heat cramps, follow these tips:
- Warm Up and Cool Down: Prepare your muscles before exercising and help them recover afterward to improve blood flow and flexibility.
- Pace Yourself: Avoid overexertion by gradually increasing the intensity of your activities, allowing your body to adapt to higher temperatures.
- Choose Lightweight Clothing: Wear breathable, lightweight fabrics to stay cool and reduce excessive sweating.
- Listen to Your Body: Stay attuned to early signs of fatigue or cramping, and take breaks as needed to avoid further strain.
By staying hydrated, replenishing electrolytes, and following these simple steps, you can enjoy outdoor activities and warmer weather without the discomfort of heat cramps.
“It is understandable that during summer we like to enjoy more time outside, but in doing so it must also be taken into consideration that we need to listen to our bodies, keep hydrated and ensure that our bodies are receiving enough nutrients to keep going,” comments Naicker. Rather be prepared than put in a situation where you are experiencing bad cramping and are unable to continue. If cramping persists over a long period of time, it is recommended to see your doctor.
