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The symptoms of this condition are described as pins and needles, a crawling sensation, or cramping mainly in the calves but sometimes noted in the thighs or arms. The sensation generally occurs during rest and inactivity and is quickly relieved by walking or moving the legs. When a person with RLS tries to go to sleep, the tingling causes them to get up and move about to relieve symptoms. Then they can’t get back to sleep, causing insomnia. RLS is most common in middle-aged women, pregnant women, and people with severe kidney disease, rheumatoid arthritis, and nerve diseases (neuropathy). Restless leg syndrome has also been reported to occur in people with varicose veins and to be relieved when the varicose veins are treated. Some studies have shown that an iron deficiency and/or folic acid deficiency (vitamin B) are involved in a number of cases.
Supplement Considerations
High Potency Multiple Vitamin and Mineral
A high potency multiple vitamin & mineral should contain boosted levels of antioxidants, a B-50 complex and other factors that are important for proper circulation to the extremities.
An essential fatty acid should contain the perfect complement of essential fatty acids, which the body converts into prostaglandins that open up (dilate) blood vessels, improving circulation to the extremities.
Coenzyme Q10 and Hawthorn Supplement
A coenzyme Q10 and hawthorn supplement should contain CoQ10 and synergistic nutrients that improve blood flow. CoQ10 supplementation has been shown to improve restless leg syndrome in some patients.
A chelated iron supplement should contain chelated iron that is highly bioavailable and non-constipating. An individual with restless leg syndrome, who has a low serum ferritin blood level between 12 and 20ug/dL, should include this supplement in the management of their condition, as iron supplementation has been shown to benefit individuals who have this problem when iron levels are low.
Additional Supplement Considerations
Additional Iron
75 mg per day (requires doctor’s supervision and monitoring)
Additional Folic Acid
5,000 – 30,000 mcg per day (required doctor’s supervision and monitoring)
Additional Vitamin E
400 IU per day
Probiotics
2 capsules per day of a potent probiotic
Studies have shown that supplementation with iron, folic acid of vitamin E, at the dosages noted above, have helped individuals with restless leg syndrome. More recently, we have seen that improving the gut microflora with probiotics may also be helpful.