Magnesium deficiency is a well-known cause for leg cramps and this is a common GAPS condition. Magnesium deficiency may result from a number of causes such as toxins in the gut, mercury, lead and many other toxic metals or chemicals that accumulate in the body. Dr Natasha expresses the number one cause of widespread magnesium deficiency in the population to be a direct result of over consumption of processed carbohydrates and sugar in particular. The GAPS diet aims to remove carbohydrates, which also promotes foods high in magnesium such as those used in juicing with organic oranges, grapefruit, apples, carrots, celery, cabbage, beetroot and greens. Bathing in magnesium sulphate Epsom salts will also assist. Some GAPS patients find that supplementing magnesium may or may not help with their symptoms and this is because there are many factors involved in the metabolism of magnesium in the body.

Fat soluble vitamins A, D, K and E are one of the most essential nutrients for the body to be able to absorb and use magnesium from food or supplements. To supply these vitamins we need animal fats: fats on meats, butter and sour cream. In order for magnesium to work it also needs other vitamins, minerals and amino acids to help work as a team to get the results. So, diet as a whole is the most effective treatment to begin with, however if pain and leg cramps persist for longer as it may for conditions associated with multiple sclerosis or autism, Dr Natasha recommends Ultra Magnesium Powder which is a high dose magnesium powder featuring a patented mineral delivery system that enhances absorption and intestinal tolerance of magnesium. Dr Natasha says that one teaspoon in a glass of water is usually enough.