The restless legs vinegar treatment is a home remedy for RLS that may or may not work. Information about this approach is scant, but some claim that the strategy works very well.
What Is RLS?
Restless leg syndrome is a neurological condition that causes involuntary movements in the legs, specifically while the affected individual is at rest. Since the sleep disorder is neurological in nature, it seems unlikely that vinegar for restless legs would work, but this strategy combined with lifestyle changes may be worth the effort. Understanding the causes of RLS can help.
Causes of Restless Leg Syndrome
The neurological problem is more likely to occur in people who are related to others who have RLS. Some triggers can cause the problem to occur, making lifestyle changes and homeopathic remedies very appealing.
- Smoking
- Alcohol
- Caffeine
- Certain prescription medications
- Over-the-counter cold and allergy medicine
- Underlying medical conditions
- Iron deficiency
- Third trimester of pregnancy
Treating the underlying conditions and making some changes in lifestyle can alleviate the symptoms of restless leg syndrome. As the least intrusive methods, including lifestyle changes, fail to work, medications for RLS may be prescribed. Some suggest that using apple cider vinegar can help as an alternative to medications.
Restless leg syndrome treatment typically begins with the least intrusive approach, with focus on avoiding possible triggers. Those with iron deficits may find relief with iron supplements. Exercises for RLS may help in some cases.
Vinegar as a Treatment Option
Apple cider vinegar for RLS is another option to consider, but there appears to be no clinical backing for this strategy. Most information about restless legs vinegar treatments is present in health message boards, with some suggesting that a pH imbalance in the body may lead to the sleep disturbances.
Vinegar is an alkaline food that some believe can balance pH levels in the body. However, there appear to be no clinical studies that suggest that RLS stems from a pH imbalance.
Using Vinegar for RLS
People who want to use apple cider vinegar for restless leg syndrome have two options. They can opt to ingest the vinegar or they can use it as a topical treatment. Some assert that rubbing vinegar on the legs before retiring for the night can alleviate the symptoms. There is no clinical evidence to support this claim.
Ingesting apple cider vinegar is another matter. It is important to discuss this option with your physician before adopting the practice. There are some side effects to consider including:
- Stomach upset
- Heartburn
- Loss of tooth enamel
- Lower potassium levels (which can lead to muscle cramps)
- Throat irritation
- Loss of bone density
- Allergic reactions
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- Hives
- Wheezing
- Swelling in throat
- Possible drug interactions
Using restless leg vinegar as a topical treatment may be the ideal place to begin since it is the least intrusive. Consult with a physician before taking apple cider vinegar internally for RLS because it does have the potential for side effects and it is not meant to replace any medical treatments.
