Which Vitamins Are Good for Muscle Pains?

Your body uses vitamins and minerals to carry out its normal functions and maintain its health, including that of the bones and muscles. Some vitamin deficiencies can result in muscle pain, so you may want to supplement your diet if you suspect your chronic muscle pains are partially or primarily caused by a vitamin deficiency. Of course, any serious muscle problems should be treated by a qualified doctor.

Vitamin B-1

Vitamin B-1, also known as thiamin, is used by your body in a variety of ways, including for the synthesis of DNA and RNA in cells. According to the Linus Pauling Institute, a deficiency in thiamin can cause nerve damage, resulting in muscle pain and weakness. If you are suffering from muscle pain, you may not be consuming enough B-1 normally or you may have had a sudden increase in your B-1 intake due to a demanding exercise regime, pregnancy, or breastfeeding. You can find B-1 in whole grain foods, legumes and pork.

Vitamin D

Nutritional Cause of Stiff Leg Muscles

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Your body uses vitamin D to maintain strong bones by absorbing calcium and helping your muscles move. A vitamin D deficiency can cause osteomalacia in adults, leading to muscle pain and weakness. However, it is easy to make sure you are getting enough vitamin D. According to the National Institutes of Health, your body can produce the vitamin D it needs through just a few minutes of daily exposure to direct sunlight. You can also supplement your intake with a multivitamin.

Vitamin E

Vitamin E is an antioxidant which fights damage to cells caused by harmful substances called free radicals. However, insufficient amounts of vitamin E can cause muscle damage, leading to muscle weakness and loss of movement control, along with a weakened immune system. Vitamin E can be found naturally in nuts and seeds, sunflower oil, wheat germ, and fortified cereals. Most multivitamins also provide sufficient amounts of vitamin E to meet the needs of an average adult.

Other Vitamins and Minerals

Can Certain Vitamins Help Tight Muscles?

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Other nutrients can also help relieve muscle pains. A magnesium deficiency can cause muscle weakness and pain, while a lack of other B vitamins, like riboflavin, can also lead to muscle cramps and pain. However, some vitamins and minerals, like vitamin E, can cause toxicity when consumed too much, so make sure you consult your doctor before using any vitamin supplements to treat muscle pain.