There’s nothing more irritating than waking up to muscle cramps in the middle of the night, especially if it gets intense and persistent.

Cramps usually occur in the calf muscles, feet and thighs. In most cases, though harmless, the cause is unknown. However, if the cramps happen frequently, it can be associated to low Calcium level.

Calcium is the most abundant mineral in the human body. It is recognized for building and sustaining bones and is equally fundamental for muscle contraction and nerve function. The body needs sufficient amount of Calcium to function efficiently. If you don’t get enough or too much of Calcium, it can trigger numerous complications.

In the Philippines, adults are more likely to be calcium deficient. According to Food and Nutrition Research Institute (FNRI), our daily Calcium requirement is 1000 mg for adults. However, Filipino adults consume only 410 mg a day— making them more susceptible to lethargy, loss of appetite, osteoporosis, tooth decay, and the painful cramps you may be experiencing every now and then. On the other hand, symptoms of calcium toxicity include nausea, constipation, and kidney stones.

To prevent deficiency, it is recommended to eat calcium-rich foods like dairy products like milk, cheese, tofu, beans, and broccoli.

Discover more interesting information about Calcium below:

Consult your physician about nutrient testing to find out if you are Calcium deficient. An accurate diagnosis of your Calcium level can help your doctor recommend a personalized dietary and supplementation plan that will help maintain adequate Calcium levels.

#NutriCheckPH