Question: How can I prevent leg cramps during pregnancy? It’s getting frequent and affecting my sleep.

Answer: Leg cramps can worsen as the pregnancy progresses because of increase weight gain, for example. It can also result from excessively high levels of phosphorous or low levels of potassium and calcium in the body. Ease away your blues with these easy tips:

• Regular exercise, such as walking, can improve your blood circulation. You can also stretch the legs, especially before bedtime.

• Try not to stand or cross your legs for a prolonged period of time.

• Include more calcium-rich foods (dairy products, fish with bones like sardine, almonds, leafy green veggies and tofu) and potassium-rich foods (such as bananas) in your diet. You can also take multi-vitamins containing calcium and potassium.

• Cut back on foods containing high amounts of phosphorus (such as snacks, soft drinks and processed meats).

• Drink at least eight glasses of water daily to stay hydrated.

• Take warm baths, and get your hubby to massage your legs.