Which fruit combats cramps more efficiently: Bananas or apples?

Bananas

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by Ty Fillers

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I have found bananas to be far more effective in combating muscle cramps than apples. Most muscle cramps in the legs are due from a low potassium level, a nutrient bananas are an excellent source of.

Muscle cramps in the feet and legs can be quite painful and can jolt one from the bed in the midst of an otherwise blissful night of sleep. There are, of course, various reasons for these muscle cramps, including excessive use during the day, dehydration, fluid retention, and a low potassium level.

Many people suffer from high blood pressure and, as a result, are on medication to lower the blood pressure and to alleviate the fluid retention which often accompanies high blood pressure. Fluid retention medication can rapidly deplete the body of vital nutrients it needs to function properly. One of the most common side effects of taking blood pressure medication and fluid retention medication is a low potassium level. Most physicians treating patients with high blood pressure have to prescribe Potassium Chloride at some point.

In addition to the Potassium Chloride prescription, these physicians almost always advise the patient to eat potassium rich foods. Bananas are at the top of the list of the few foods they often suggest to the patient.

Bananas are high in Vitamin B6, Vitamin C, and Potassium. They are a good source of dietary fiber and manganese, as well. Vitamin B6 benefits the body in a multitude of ways. It helps relieve fluid retention and the resulting swelling of the tissues, tendinitis, carpal tunnel syndrome, peripheral neuropathy, and cardiovascular problems.

Vitamin B6 also helps other enzymes to create neurotransmitters, make amino acids, balance hormones, and strengthen the immune system.

Vitamin C is an antioxidant which helps the body fight free radicals. It aids the immune system and is responsible for producing collagen.

Potassium Chloride fights stroke, heart disease, kidney disorders, blood pressure problems, and aids in muscle strength. Potassium Chloride also benefits the nervous system, water balance, and electrolytic function.

Apples are a good source of Vitamin C and dietary fiber, but contain less Vitamin C than does a banana and contain no Potassium Chloride. While apples are quite tasty, they offer little benefit in preventing or correcting cramping of any type.

Any person who suffers frequently from cramping should see their physician. If the cramping is due to a low Potassium Chloride level, immediate action must be taken to correct the imbalance. If the Potassium level is too low, it can result in a heart attack or stroke. In cases where it the level is extremely low, the result can be death.

Any person who exercises frequently, works a physically demanding job, or suffers from high blood pressure could benefit tremendously from the addition of bananas in their diet.

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