Muscle cramps are painful, involuntary contractions caused by an imbalance of electrolytes (sodium, potassium, calcium, or magnesium), lack of water, or insufficient blood flow to the muscle. Cramps can be triggered by over exercise, very cold temperatures, dehydration, or any muscle irritation that causes pain. The pain impulse travels to the spinal cord, which responds by sending back impulses that create more pain, setting up a vicious cycle.
Beneficial Juices
Celery, carrot, and beet green – good sources of sodium.
Swiss chard, kale, and carrot – good sources of potassium.
Kale, collard green, and watercress – good sources of calcium.
Collard greens and parsley – sources of magnesium.
Asparagus, carrot, and spinach – sources of vitamin E.
Red pepper, kale, and collard greens – sources of vitamin C.
NutriJuice Max suggested juicing recipes for preventing muscle cramps:
Summertime Punch
1 large bunch green grapes
½ lime
2 stalks celery
Water
Juice grapes, lime, and celery.
Mix juice with equal amount for water.
Mineral Tonic
Handful parsley
2 turnip leaves
1 kale leaf
4 – 5 carrots, greens removed
Roll up parsley in turnip and kale leaves and push through hopper with carrots.
Source: A Guide to the Health Benefits of Fresh Fruit and Vegetable Juicing: Juicing for Life
Authors: Cherie Calbom & Maureen Keane, 1992 - The Penguin Group