Ask the Nurse

I have trouble with restless legs, mostly at night. I would rather not take a prescription drug for it. Is there anything else that I could try, maybe extra vitamin supplements?


Restless leg syndrome can sometimes be caused by a nutritional deficiency such as iron. Before you start taking iron it’s a good idea to see your health care provider as the body does not need extra iron if it is not low to begin with.

Other steps you can take to help with restless leg syndrome are:

  • Taking a warm bath before bed
  • Stretching
  • Avoid exercising too late in the day
  • Getting enough sleep
  • Taking a magnesium supplement of 250-400 mg may be used at night

It’s always important to see your physician as you may have other sleep issues that may need to be evaluated.

All My Best,
Speaking of Women's Health Nurse

November 13, 2012 at 4:05pm