What dietary supplements will help with convulsions from athletes

What dietary supplements will help with convulsions of athletes: a full guide

I. Understanding convulsions of athletes

Convulsions, involuntary and painful muscle contractions, are a common problem among athletes, especially those who are engaged in intensive training and competitions. They can vary by intensity from mild twitching to painful pain, leading to the cessation of training or competition. Before considering biologically active additives (dietary supplements) as a solution, it is necessary to understand the causes and risk factors of seizures.

A. Physiology of muscle seizures

Muscle cramps occur when nervous impulses that control muscle contractions become abnormal. Instead of a normal cycle of contraction and relaxation, muscles remain in a state of contraction, causing pain and discomfort. Key players in this process:

1. Motoneurons: Nerve cells transmit signals from the brain and spinal cord to the muscles. Motoneurons dysfunction can lead to uncontrolled abbreviations.

2. Muscle fibers: They consist of actin and myosin, proteins interacting to ensure muscle contraction. The imbalance of electrolytes and dehydration can violate this process.

3. Proprioceptors: Sensory receptors in the muscles, tendons and joints, informing the brain about the position of the body and movement. Muscle fatigue can disrupt their function, increasing the risk of seizures.

B. Causes and risk factors

There are many reasons for convulsions in athletes, and often they are the result of a combination of several factors:

1. Dehydration: Loss of fluid through the sweat leads to a decrease in blood volume, a decrease in the delivery of electrolytes to the muscles and the accumulation of metabolic waste.

2. Dysbalance of electrolytes: Electrolytes, such as sodium, potassium, calcium and magnesium, play a decisive role in nervous and muscle function. The loss of these electrolytes through sweat can disrupt the normal muscle contraction.

3. Muscle fatigue: Obraining and insufficient rest can lead to muscle fatigue, which makes them more susceptible to convulsions. The weary muscles less effectively regulate the levels of electrolytes and are more prone to involuntary contractions.

4. Insufficient carbohydrate consumption: Carbohydrates are the main source of energy for muscles. Inadequate carbohydrate consumption can lead to depletion of glycogen reserves, which reduces performance and increases the risk of seizures.

5. Poor warm -up and stretching: Insufficient warm -up before training and the lack of stretching after training can increase the risk of seizures. Warming prepares the muscles for the load, and stretching improves flexibility and reduces the tension.

6. High temperature and humidity: Training in hot and humid conditions increase the sweating and loss of electrolytes, which increases the risk of seizures.

7. Predisposition: Some athletes are more prone to convulsions than others, possibly due to genetic factors or physiology.

8. Medical conditions: In rare cases, convulsions can be a symptom of the underlying disease, such as hypothyroidism, kidney disease or nervous disorders.

II. The role of dietary supplements in the prevention and treatment of seizures

Bades can play an auxiliary role in the prevention and treatment of seizures in athletes, but they are not a panacea. They are most effective in combination with adequate hydration, a balanced meal, proper scumbaging and stretching, as well as a sufficient rest. It is important to consult a doctor or sports nutritionist before starting to receive any dietary supplements in order to make sure of their safety and effectiveness for a particular case.

A. The main dietary supplements for the prevention of seizures

1. Electrolytes:

   • Sodium: The most important electrolyte, lost with later. It is necessary to maintain blood volume, transmit nerve impulses and muscle contractions. Sodium sports drinks can help make up for its losses. The dosage depends on the intensity of sweating and the duration of the training. An excess of sodium can lead to edema and an increase in blood pressure.

   • Potassium: It is important for maintaining the balance of fluid, transmitting nerve impulses and muscle contraction. Potassium deficiency is less common than sodium deficiency, but can contribute to convulsions. Sources of potassium: bananas, oranges, potatoes and avocados. Excessive use of potassium can be dangerous, especially for people with kidney diseases.

   • Calcium: It is necessary to reduce muscles, transmit nerve impulses and blood coagulation. Calcium deficiency can lead to increased excitability of the nervous system and seizures. Sources of calcium: dairy products, green leafy vegetables and enriched products. An excess of calcium can lead to constipation and formation of stones in the kidneys.

   • Magnesium: Participates in more than 300 biochemical reactions in the body, including muscle contraction, transmission of nerve impulses and energy metabolism. Magnesium deficiency is associated with an increased risk of seizures. Sources of magnesium: green leafy vegetables, nuts, seeds and whole grains. Magnesium can cause diarrhea at high doses.

   • Chloride: One of the main electrolytes, lost with later, is involved in maintaining the balance of liquid and electrolyte balance. It is usually consumed along with sodium in the form of sodium chloride (table salt).

2. Creatine:

   • Creatine is a natural compound contained in the muscles and used to produce energy during intense exercises. Although creatine is mainly known for its ergogenic properties (increasing strength and power), some studies show that it can also help reduce cramps.

   • Action mechanisms:

     • Improving hydration: Creatine increases the water content in the muscles, which can help prevent dehydration and convulsions.

     • Improving glycogen levels: Creatine can contribute to the accumulation of glycogen in the muscles, ensuring the supply of energy and reducing the risk of fatigue.

     • Lactic acid buffer: Creatine can help buffering lactic acid, which accumulates during intense exercises and can contribute to convulsions.

   • Dosage: usually a loading dose of 20 grams per day is recommended for 5-7 days, followed by a maintenance dose of 3-5 grams per day.

   • Side effects: Side effects are rarely observed, but some people may feel bloating or discomfort in the stomach.

3. Taurin:

   • Taurin is an amino acid contained in high concentrations in the muscles and nervous tissue. It participates in various physiological processes, including osmoregulation (maintaining the balance of liquid) and stabilization of cell membranes.

   • Action mechanisms:

     • Osmoregulation: Taurin helps maintain the balance of fluid in the muscles, preventing dehydration and convulsions.

     • Membrane stabilization: Taurin stabilizes cell membranes, which can help improve the nervous and muscle function.

     • Antioxidant properties: Taurin has antioxidant properties that can help reduce oxidative stress and inflammation associated with intensive exercises.

   • Dosage: usually a dose of 500-2000 mg per day is recommended.

   • Side effects: Taurin, as a rule, is well tolerated, but some people may have light side effects, such as nausea or diarrhea.

4. Vitamin D:

   • Vitamin D is important for the health of bones, muscle function and the immune system. Vitamin D deficiency is associated with an increased risk of muscle weakness, pain and seizures.

   • Action mechanisms:

     • Improving muscle function: Vitamin D plays a role in muscle contraction and can help improve strength and endurance.

     • Calcium regulation: Vitamin D helps regulate blood calcium levels, which is important for nervous and muscle function.

     • Immune function: Vitamin D supports the immune system, which can help reduce the risk of infections that can cause muscle pain and cramps.

   • Dosage: The recommended daily dose of vitamin D is 600-800 IU (international units). However, some people may need higher doses, especially if they have vitamin D deficiency. It is necessary to check the level of vitamin D in the blood and consult a doctor to determine the optimal dose.

   • Side effects: an excess of vitamin D can lead to hypercalcemia (an increased level of calcium in the blood), which can cause nausea, vomiting, weakness and other health problems.

5. Magnesium oil (transdermal use):

   • Magner oil is a solution of magnesium chloride, which is applied to the skin. It is believed that the transdermal use of magnesium can help improve its absorption by bypassing the gastrointestinal tract.

   • Action mechanisms:

     • Improving the assimilation of magnesium: Some studies show that magnesium can be well absorbed through the skin.

     • Local muscle relaxation: Magnesium can help relax muscles and reduce cramps when applying directly to the affected area.

   • Method of application: Magner oil is sprayed onto the skin and massaged until completely absorbed. It can cause a light tingling or burning sensation, which usually takes place over time.

   • Advantages: it can be useful for people experiencing gastrointestinal problems when taking magnesium inside.

6. Salt tablets/capsules:

   • Salt tablets/capsules contain electrolytes, such as sodium, potassium and chloride. They are designed to replenish electrolytes, lost with later during intense exercises.

   • Action mechanisms:

     • Replenishment of electrolytes: They help to make up for sodium, potassium and chloride reserves necessary for nervous and muscle function.

     • Improving hydration: Sodium helps to retain water in the body, which can improve hydration.

   • Dosage: Dosage depends on the intensity of sweating and the duration of the training. It is important to follow the instructions on the label and not take too many salt tablets, as this can lead to hypernatremia (an increased level of sodium in the blood).

   • Advantages: a convenient way to replenish electrolytes during long training and competitions.

B. Dietrs to facilitate seizures

1. Hinin (quinine):

   • Khinin is a medicine used to treat malaria, but in the past it was also used to treat nightly leg cramps. However, due to potential serious side effects, the use of quinine to treat seizures is limited.

   • The mechanisms of action: the exact mechanism of quinin action in convulsions is not completely understandable, but it is believed that it can affect the nervous and muscle function.

   • Risks and side effects: quinin can cause serious side effects, such as thrombocytopenia (decrease in platelet levels), heart rhythm disturbances and allergic reactions. The use of quinine for the treatment of seizures should be carried out only under the supervision of a doctor and after a thorough assessment of risks and advantages.

   • Important remark: Hinin is not recommended as the first option for the treatment of seizures due to risks.

2. Vinegar (Vinegar):

   • Some athletes use vinegar (especially apple vinegar) to facilitate seizures. The mechanism of action is not completely understandable, but there are several theories:

     • Impact on the nervous system: It is assumed that vinegar can affect nerve impulses that control muscle contractions.

     • Electrolyte balance restoration: Vinegar contains potassium, which can help replenish the electrolyte imbalance.

     • Taste effect: A strong taste of vinegar can stimulate nerves in the mouth and throat, which can help relieve cramps.

   • Method of application: you can drink a small amount of vinegar (1-2 tablespoons) diluted with water.

   • Cautions: vinegar can damage tooth enamel, so it is important to dilute it with water and rinse your mouth after consumption. It is not recommended to use vinegar in large quantities.

3. Sharp pepper (Capsaicin):

   • Capsaicin is an active component of acute chili pepper. It is used in various painkillers, including creams and plasters.

   • Action mechanisms:

     • Reducing pain sensitivity: Capsaicin stimulates pain receptors, which leads to a depletion of substance p, neurotransmitter participating in the transmission of pain signals. This can help reduce the pain associated with convulsions.

     • Improving blood circulation: Capsaicin can improve blood circulation in the area of ​​application, which can help relax muscles.

   • Method of application: creams and patchings with capsaicin are applied to the affected area.

   • Cautions: capsaicin can cause burning and skin irritation. It is necessary to avoid entering the eye and on the mucous membranes.

4. Pickle Juice:

   • Picle Jus (brine from salted cucumbers) is a popular means to facilitate seizures among athletes.

   • Action mechanisms:

     • Impact on the nervous system: It is believed that the strong taste of Jus Pickle stimulates nerves in the mouth and throat, which can help alleviate cramps.

     • Sodium replenishment: Picle Jus contains sodium, which can help replenish the loss of electrolytes.

     • Improving hydration: The content of water and electrolytes can help improve hydration.

   • Method of application: you can drink a small amount of jus picl (100-200 ml) when seizures appear.

   • Cautions: Picle Jus contains a lot of sodium, therefore it is not recommended to use it in large quantities, especially people with high blood pressure.

III. The importance of an individual approach

There is no universal solution for the prevention and treatment of seizures in athletes. What works for one person may not work for another. It is important to consider individual factors, such as:

• Type of sports and intensity of training: Athletes involved in various sports and training with different intensity have different needs for electrolytes and hydration.
• Sweating: The speed of sweating for each person is different, which affects the loss of electrolytes.
• Diet: The athlete’s diet affects his reserves of glycogen, the level of electrolytes and the general health of health.
• Medical story: Some medical conditions can increase the risk of seizures.
• Bad reaction: Each person reacts differently to dietary supplements.

IV. Prevention strategies not related to dietary supplements

In addition to taking dietary supplements, there are other important strategies for the prevention of seizures:

1. Adequate hydration: Drink enough liquids before, during and after training. Focus on the color of urine-it should be light yellow.

2. Balanced nutrition: Eat products rich in electrolytes, such as fruits, vegetables, dairy products and nuts. Receive enough carbohydrates to maintain glycogen reserves.

3. Proper warm -up and stretching: Heat muscles before training and stretch them after training. Focus on the muscles that are most prone to cramps.

4. Gradual increase in load: Avoid a sharp increase in the intensity or duration of training. Give the muscles the time to adapt to the load.

5. Sufficient rest: Select enough time to relax and restore between training. Do not overturn.

6. Acclimatization to heat: During training in hot weather, give the body time to adapt to high temperatures. Gradually increase the duration and intensity of training in the heat.

7. Cloth: Wear clothes that allows the skin to breathe and does not delay sweat.

V. When to see a doctor

In most cases, convulsions in athletes are not a serious problem and pass on their own. However, you must consult a doctor if:

• Convulsions arise often and are not related to training.
• Convulsions are very strong and do not pass for a long time.
• Convulsions are accompanied by other symptoms such as fever, headache, nausea or vomiting.
• There is a suspicion of the underlying disease.

VI. Legal aspects of the use of dietary supplements

It is important to note that the legal status of dietary supplements differs in different countries. In some countries, dietary supplements are regulated as food, and in others as drugs. It is important for athletes to know the legal aspects of the use of dietary supplements in their country and make sure that they do not accept prohibited substances. Always check the list of prohibited substances in your sport before taking any additives.

VII. Final considerations

In conclusion, dietary supplements can be a useful addition to the strategy for the prevention and treatment of convulsions in athletes. However, they should not be considered as a replacement of adequate hydration, balanced nutrition, proper warm -up and stretching, as well as sufficient rest. It is important to consult a doctor or sports nutritionist before starting to receive any dietary supplements in order to make sure of their safety and effectiveness for a particular case. Remember that an individual approach is the key to the successful prevention and treatment of seizures. Understanding the causes, risk factors and accessible options will help athletes stay healthy and train as efficiently as possible.