Cramps, Sodium, and Me by Alvin Gregory

Recently, after a rigorous day of exercise, I snuggled into my cozy, turned on an old western I've wanted to watch, and proceeded to relax … that is until both legs behind my knees decided to cramp up … yikes … painful to say the least. The next day, my wife and medical adviser informed me that I needed to increase my intake of potassium (among other things). Here is what I found out ...

Potassium plays an important role in maintaining good health. It assists communication between muscles and nerves as well as maintaining body fluid balances. Sodium causes the body to retain fluid and increases blood pressure (we love our salt don't we). Potassium processes sodium out of the body while lowering blood pressure. ALERT: individuals with high sodium levels and low potassium levels are at increased risk for heart disease.

OK … sure your multiple vitamins or supplements boost your potassium levels … but I found out a much better bet is to fill your plate with potassium loaded vegetables … spinach, kale, broccoli, asparagus, cauliflower, to name a few. It doesn't hurt to regularly add avocados, chicken, or salmon; all loaded with potassium. Switching to salt alternatives containing potassium chloride rather that sodium chloride will also help boost potassium levels.

In other words, we can get plenty of potassium by filling our plates with fresh fruits and vegetables as opposed to prepackaged convenience 'junk' foods.

… and here's the good news … living on Whidbey gives us all access to numerous wonderful farm to table opportunities. Spring and summer on the island gives rise to many farm stands and produce outlets that are reasonably priced and downright delicious; not to mention while providing a fun family outing … U pick berry's anyone? While helping you and yours maintain a healthy cramp free existence, you will also contribute to small local farm sustainability; and that's a good thing for all.

Oh, by the way, as mentioned earlier, this all started with a cramp and me… and my health advisor's fast remedy… I'm not kidding, a big swallow of pickle juice … that's right ... pickle juice. The result was almost immediate as cramps disappeared. Not sure what's in that stuff but … well, it worked. On your way to better health by increasing your potassium levels, should the need arise, try a big gulp of pickle juice and head for a local farm market … you will be glad you did!