Are you in search of the best supplements for restless leg syndrome but don't know where to start?
Or maybe you've got a supplement in mind, but you're not sure if it's the right one for you.
In either case, you're not alone.
Restless legs syndrome is a neurological disorder that affects millions of people globally.
When left untreated, this medical condition can cause a host of problems that make it difficult to get a good night's rest. Some of these issues can include muscle aches, joint pain, headaches, fatigue, and insomnia due to uncomfortable sensations in the legs.
With any of these symptoms, finding relief from restless leg syndrome is essential to maintaining a good quality of life.
Fortunately, there are many supplements that can help ease restless leg symptoms for fast and long-term relief.
That's why we've put together this guide to help you make the right choice for your individual needs.
We'll cover the best supplements for restless leg syndrome, the benefits that come with taking them, and how you can maximize their effectiveness.
Ready to learn more? Let's get started.
Best Supplements for Restless Leg Syndrome
From herbal supplements to vitamins and minerals, there are a wide range of natural remedies that can help ease the symptoms of restless leg syndrome.
Some of the best options include:
Iron supplements
Iron supplements are one of the best supplements for restless leg syndrome.
Iron is an essential mineral that plays a key role in providing energy to your cells and helping them produce red blood cells.
When you don’t get enough iron from your diet, it can lead to iron deficiency anemia, which is linked to restless legs syndrome. Taking iron supplements can help increase the levels of iron in your body to ease RLS.
With optimal iron levels, symptoms like an irresistible urge to move your legs can be reduced, giving you a better chance of getting a good night’s rest.
Vitamin supplements
Another way to ease the symptoms of restless leg syndrome is by supplementing with vitamins.
Vitamins are essential for the body's overall health and a deficiency can cause a range of symptoms, including those related with restless legs syndrome.
Take Vitamin B12 for example.
A deficiency of this vitamin can lead to an overproduction of enzymes that cause leg cramps and spasms. Supplementing with a high-quality Vitamin B12 supplement helps to restore your body's natural balance, which in turn provides relief from these RLS symptoms.
Other vitamin supplements that can help with restless leg syndrome include Vitamin B6, Vitamin E, and folate.
The efficacy of vitamin B6 is known to help with the production of serotonin, which helps reduce unpleasant sensations for restful sleep. Vitamin E can reduce inflammation in your legs, while folate (Folic acid) helps to reduce the risk of heart disease associated with RLS.
Magnesium supplements
Do you like the idea of natural remedies?
Then magnesium might be the perfect supplement for you.
Magnesium is an essential mineral that helps to relax the muscles and nerves in your legs, making it a great choice for those experiencing restless leg syndrome. It's also one of the best supplements for relief due to its ability to help stimulate blood flow to your legs while reducing inflammation.
Other benefits that come with magnesium supplementation include better sleep, improved mood, and lower stress levels. Effectiveness of magnesium can be increased when it's taken in combination with Vitamin B6.
L-dopa supplements
Next on our list of supplements for treatment of patients with restless leg syndrome is L-Dopa.
Also known as levodopa, this powerful supplement works by boosting the levels of dopamine production in your brain.
Wondering how dopamine helps with restless legs syndrome?
Well, dopamine is a neurotransmitter that plays an important role in keeping your muscles relaxed. Higher levels of dopamine can help reduce RLS symptom severity, providing relief from leg cramps and spasms.
It can also help to relieve sleep disorders like excessive daytime sleepiness, giving you the rest and relaxation that your body needs. That's why L-Dopa makes it onto our list of the best supplements for restless leg syndrome.
Just like dopamine agonists or dopaminergic drugs, L-Dopa helps to reduce the intensity of your symptoms, giving you much-needed relief.
Herbal supplements
For those looking for a more natural approach to relieving restless leg syndrome, herbal supplements may be the right choice.
These supplements provide relief from RLS symptoms without relying on pharmaceuticals or other medications.
Valerian root is one of the most popular herbal remedies for RLS. It works by helping to increase the production of GABA, a neurotransmitter that helps to relax your muscles and reduce any overwhelming need to move your legs.
Chamomile is another herbal supplement that can help reduce the symptoms of RLS. This herb works to relax your muscles and reduce inflammation, helping you find relief from any muscle pain or spasms associated with RLS.
You can also find herbal supplements that combine several of these herbs, providing you with a more effective combination for treatment.
Omega-3 fatty acid supplements
Fatty acids?
What have they got to do with restless leg syndrome? Is there any benefit to taking omega-3 supplements for RLS?
The answer is yes!
Omega-3 fatty acids are essential fats that help reduce inflammation and improve nerve function. When it comes to RLS, they can help reduce the intensity of your symptoms and improve your sleep quality.
These fatty acids play a major role in regulating your body’s production of certain hormones and neurotransmitters, which can help reduce muscle spasms and cramps. Omega-3 fatty acids can also help to improve your mood, reduce stress levels, and provide you with the energy you need to fight off fatigue.
If you’re looking for a natural way to reduce your RLS symptoms, then adding omega-3 fatty acid supplements to your daily routine is an excellent choice.
| In order of effectiveness | Supplements | Description |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Iron | Essential for energy production and red blood cell production. Helps with RLS and anemia. |
| 2 | L-dopa | Boosts dopamine levels, reduces RLS symptom severity, and improves sleep. |
| 3 | Magnesium | Relaxes muscles, improves blood flow, reduces inflammation, and aids in better sleep. |
| 4 | Vitamin | Various vitamins like B12, B6, E, and folate alleviate RLS symptoms through different means. |
| 5 | Herbal | Valerian root, chamomile, and others can help relax muscles and reduce RLS symptoms. |
| 6 | Omega-3 fatty acids | Reduces inflammation, improves nerve function, and may help with RLS intensity and sleep. |
Now that you know about the best supplements for restless leg syndrome, which one are you looking to try?
Whether you're going the herbal route, trying out vitamins, or looking to add more omega-3 fatty acids to your diet, you'll be taking a step in the right direction toward finding relief from RLS.
Next, we'll be taking a close look at how you stand to benefit from using supplements to find relief from restless leg syndrome.
Benefits of Using Supplements for Restless Leg Syndrome
The use of supplements for treating restless leg syndrome offers a variety of benefits that can help improve your health and overall quality of life.
Some of the most notable ones include:
Proper nerve function
If you're dealing with RLS, then you know how nerve dysfunction can play a huge role in exacerbating your symptoms.
Making use of supplements can help to improve the function of your nerves, which can lead to better control of your legs and decreased pain in the long run.
Vitamins such as vitamin B12 can help reduce inflammation, while omega-3 fatty acids can play a role in regulating hormones and neurotransmitters to prevent peripheral neuropathy. Whichever supplement you choose, make sure to take the recommended dosage for optimal results.
This way, you can enjoy the benefits of improved nerve function without having to worry about any adverse side effects.
Reduced spasms or cramps
When it comes to treating restless leg syndrome, many people turn to supplements as a way to reduce spasms or cramps.
Herbal supplements such as valerian root and chamomile can help relax your muscles and improve nerve function, thus reducing any associated cramps or spasms. What's more, magnesium and vitamin E are also known to reduce the intensity of these symptoms.
When taken together, this combination of treatments can help reduce the intensity of your RLS symptoms and provide you with long-term relief.
Improved sleep quality
Perhaps one of the most important benefits of taking supplements for restless leg syndrome is that they can help improve your sleep quality.
Take omega-3 fatty acids, for example. These essential fats regulate your body's production of certain hormones and neurotransmitters that can help you relax, fall asleep faster, and stay asleep longer.
Vitamins such as vitamin B, magnesium, and calcium can also help relieve sleep disorders like excessive daytime sleepiness by reducing inflammation and relaxing the muscles in your legs.
These supplements also work together to provide you with a better night's rest and more energy the next day.
Low stress levels
Low stress levels are another one of the many benefits of taking supplements for restless leg syndrome.
Stress can cause your symptoms to worsen, so it's important to make sure that it is managed properly.
Certain supplements, such as omega-3 fatty acids and magnesium, have been found to help reduce stress levels, thus providing relief from RLS. Omega-3s can help regulate hormones, while magnesium supplements help relax your muscles and reduce spasms or cramps.
What's more, certain herbal supplements, such as valerian root, can help promote relaxation and reduce stress levels.
From enhanced nerve function to improved sleep and low stress levels, there's no denying that taking supplements can be a great way to manage your RLS symptoms. Just ensure to take the right mix or dosage for the best results.
Next, we'll be taking a close look at just how you can maximize the benefits of taking supplements for restless leg syndrome.
Maximizing Supplements for Restless Leg Syndrome
While taking supplements can be a great way to manage your RLS symptoms, it's important to make sure that you maximize their benefits for the best results.
Here are some tips on how you can do just that:
Take your supplements as prescribed
First on our list of tips is to maximize the benefits of taking supplements for restless leg syndrome by taking them as prescribed.
Just imagine getting your hands on the best supplement for RLS, only to have it fail to deliver the desired results because you took too much or too little of it. That's why it's important to take your supplements as prescribed and follow the dosage instructions closely.
Most supplements for RLS come with instructions on how to best use them, so make sure to read these carefully before taking any.
Eat a healthy diet
A second step you can take to enjoy the benefits of using supplements for restless leg syndrome is to ensure that you're eating a healthy diet.
Eating nutrient-rich foods can help ensure that your body receives the vitamins and minerals it needs, thus providing relief from RLS symptoms. For example, iron-rich foods such as spinach, lean red meats, fish, and poultry can help improve nerve function and reduce muscle spasms caused by iron deficiency anemia or other cases of iron depletion.
What's more, eating plenty of foods that provide high magnesium levels, such as almonds, green leafy vegetables, and bananas, can help reduce stress levels and promote relaxation.
Get massage therapy
Treating your legs to massage therapy is another beneficial way to promote fast relief from restless legs syndrome.
Getting massage therapy on a regular basis can help reduce muscle spasms, improve circulation, and soothe your nerves, all of which can help you enjoy a better night's rest. What's more, massage therapy is a great way to relax and de-stress after a long day, thus reducing your risk of experiencing severe RLS flare-ups.
If you're thinking about getting massage therapy, there are two ways you can go about it: either book an appointment with a massage therapist or purchase a massage device that you can use at home.
Going for the latter option can be a great way to save money in the long run, as it allows you to enjoy massage therapy at your own convenience. Plus, you don't have to worry about spending time in a crowded waiting room or traveling long distances just to get the therapy you need.
Practice relaxation techniques
Relaxation techniques are an important part of managing your RLS symptoms.
Not only can they help to reduce stress levels, but they can also help to promote better sleep and improved nerve function.
Deep breathing exercises, yoga, mindfulness meditation, and progressive muscle relaxation are some of the most popular relaxation techniques for people with RLS.
Yoga is a great way to relax your body and mind, while meditation can improve your focus and reduce feelings of anxiety. Deep breathing exercises can also help reduce muscle tension in the body, promoting relaxation and relief from RLS symptoms like periodic limb movements.
When practicing relaxation techniques, it's important to focus on your breathing and consciously relax each muscle group. Doing this every day can help reduce anxiety levels and improve your overall wellbeing.
Regularly stretch your legs
One of the most effective steps you can take to maximize the benefits of taking supplements for RLS is to regularly stretch your legs.
Stretching your legs regularly can help stimulate blood flow to your muscles and improve flexibility. With proper blood flow, oxygenated blood will reach your muscles, and your body can take advantage of any vitamins and minerals you take.
This will help improve nerve function and reduce your RLS symptoms.
So, make sure to stretch your legs regularly if you're taking supplements for RLS. Other well-known benefits of stretching your leg muscles include a better range of motion, improved posture, and better balance.
Practice good sleep hygiene
Practicing good sleep hygiene is another essential step RLS patients can take to maximize the benefits of using supplements for relief.
Good sleep hygiene involves having a consistent sleep schedule and establishing a comfortable sleep environment.
Having a consistent sleep schedule means going to bed at the same time every night and getting up at the same time every morning. This helps your body adjust to its biological clock and get used to falling asleep and waking up at the same time.
Creating a comfortable sleep environment means having a dark, cool room with minimal noise interference. You should also make sure that your bed is comfortable and supportive.
Have a warm or cold bath before bed
Having a warm or cold bath before bed is another great way to maximize the benefits of taking supplements for restless leg syndrome.
Warm baths can help soothe muscle tension and relax your body, while cold baths can reduce inflammation and improve circulation. Having better blood circulation means that your leg muscles will be able to absorb vitamins and minerals from any supplement you take better.
Both warm and cold baths can also help improve your sleep quality, which can further increase the effectiveness of a supplement for RLS.
Avoid alcohol late at night
If you're taking supplements for RLS, it's important to avoid alcohol, as it can interfere with the effectiveness of certain vitamins and minerals.
Alcohol is a depressant and can disrupt your sleep patterns when taken in excessive amounts. In addition, alcohol also dehydrates your body's muscles, making it difficult for your body to absorb and use the vitamins and minerals you take.
With poor absorption, you won't get the full benefits of any supplement you take. That's why it's important to avoid alcohol when taking supplements for RLS.
Don't smoke
Just as you should limit your alcohol intake, it's also important to avoid smoking if you're taking supplements for RLS.
Smoking cigarettes can reduce the absorption of vitamins and minerals from supplements, which means you won't get the full benefits of them. Cigarette smoke also contains toxins like nicotine, which can damage the nerve cells in your body, slowing down nerve function and worsening your RLS symptoms.
Therefore, it's a good idea to quit smoking if you're taking supplements for RLS. This way, you can ensure that your body is getting the full benefits of any supplement you take.
Frequently Asked Questions
Browse through our list of frequently asked questions to learn more about taking supplements for restless leg syndrome.
Whether you are just starting out or have been taking supplements for a while, we have all the answers you need about Willis-Ekbom disease.
How often should I take supplements for restless leg syndrome?
How often you should take supplements for RLS depends on the type of supplement and the severity of your symptoms.
Most of the supplements listed are best taken daily. However, there are certain supplements that can be taken every other day or even on an as-needed basis. It's important to read the directions for each supplement carefully to determine the correct dosage and frequency especially if you're dealing with restless leg syndrome in pregnancy.
Feel free to consult your health care professional if you need more advice on how often you should take supplements to find relief from periodic limb movement disorders.
How long does it take for supplements to start working on restless leg syndrome?
Time is one of the most important factors when it comes to taking supplements for RLS.
Some people may experience relief in as little as two days, while others may need more time for the supplements to have an effect. The amount of time it takes for a supplement to work depends on various factors, such as the type of supplement taken and your individual body chemistry.
It's important to be patient and consistent with your supplement routine to ensure that you get the most out of it. If you don't start seeing any improvement after a few weeks or experience any side effects, you can always consult a qualified health care provider for further advice.
Are there any side effects from taking supplements for restless leg syndrome?
While supplements are generally safe and well-tolerated, there are a few potential side effects that you should be aware of when taking them for RLS.
These may include nausea, diarrhea, headaches, fatigue, and dizziness. If any of these restless legs symptoms occur while taking supplements for relief, it's important to reduce the dosage or stop taking the supplement altogether.
It's always a good idea to speak to your healthcare provider before starting any supplement, as they can provide personalized advice on the best dosage and frequency for you.
When should I avoid taking supplements for restless leg syndrome?
Many supplements are safe and beneficial to take for RLS, but there are certain situations where it's best to avoid taking them.
For example, pregnant women should always speak to their healthcare provider before taking any supplement. What's more, elderly patients who are taking certain medications should not take supplements without consulting their doctor first, as they can interfere with the efficacy of the drugs.
Finally, if you have any chronic diseases or allergies to ingredients in a supplement, it's best to stick to other forms of long-term treatment for periodic limb movement or anxiety disorders.
Conclusion
Taking supplements for restless leg syndrome can be a powerful tool for helping you find relief from your symptoms.
However, it's important to be aware of how often and at what dosage you should take them, as well as any potential side effects that may occur.
Examples of supplements found to be beneficial for RLS include dietary iron, dopamine agonists like L-dopa, vitamins, magnesium supplements, among others. If you're considering taking any of these supplements, keep in mind to always follow the right dosage to ensure safe relief from your symptoms.
Health benefits of taking any of these supplements can range from proper nerve function to improved quality of sleep, low stress levels, and more. While these supplements can be a great way to find relief from RLS, there are certain lifestyle changes you can make as well for a more holistic approach to managing your health condition.
Some of these can include regular aerobic exercise, avoiding caffeine and alcohol, maintaining a healthy diet, and treating your legs to massage therapy.
By following a combination of these approaches, you can help ensure that you find the best relief possible from restless leg syndrome. Hope this article has been helpful in giving you everything you need to make an educated decision on how best to approach treating your restless legs with supplements.
Reach out to our team of professionals at Fusion Recovery for more tips on supplementing to help ease the periodic leg movements of restless leg syndrome.
