Restless leg syndrome or RLS is a condition that causes disturbances, which can sometimes be quite painful, in the legs. Symptoms include an itching, tingling, searing, aching or crawling sensation beneath the skin of the legs, which are usually exacerbated by long periods of non-movement. The most common times for symptoms to strike are while trying to fall asleep and while sitting in a car, bus or other restricted environment. RLS is characterized by an uncontrollable urge to move the legs in order to reduce discomfort. While there is no known cure, diet therapies exist that can help alleviate symptoms.
Cutting Caffeine and Alcohol
Caffeine and alcohol should both be avoided if you suffer from RLS, as they can both exacerbate symptoms. While caffeine is a stimulant well known for the jittery effect that it can have on people, alcohol can also increase restlessness, especially if drunk in excess on a regular basis. According to Vitacost.com, all alcoholic and caffeinated foods and beverages (which include coffees, teas, energy drinks and, to a lesser extent, chocolates) should be avoided, especially if you also suffer from hypoglycemia (a blood sugar deficiency).
Increasing Iron Intake
Restless leg syndrome sufferers may also suffer from deficiencies in iron levels, which can exacerbate symptoms. According to Vitacost.com, you should have a physician test to see if you have an iron deficiency before increasing iron intake. If you already have a healthy level of iron, increasing intake will not help alleviate RLS symptoms, and consuming iron in excess may have negative side effects. While iron supplements are a popular method for increasing iron, an iron-rich diet is also effective. Common foods with high levels of iron include dried fruits (like raisins and apricots), leafy green vegetables (such as spinach), shellfish (like clams and mussels), and legumes (specifically lentils, beans and chickpeas).
Gluten-Free Diets
Gluten is a substance found in cereal grains that is comprised of protein. People who suffer from celiac disease, whose small intestines are extremely sensitive to gluten, can trigger an allergic reaction by ingesting even a small amount of it. According to Celiac.com, scientists have found a link between restless leg syndrome and celiac disease. Some celiac medications have proven helpful in lessening the negative effects of RLS, which suggests that a gluten-free diet (which all celiacs must follow) may also be beneficial for RLS sufferers. The diet entails avoiding all foods made with cereal grains, including bread, pizza, cake, pretzels and breakfast cereal. Many processed foods also contain hidden amounts of gluten.
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