Why do I get a charlie-horse pain in my leg? And why is it usually around 3am?

I get this several times a week, it is so annoying because usually the only way to get rid of them is to stand up…..ugh.
people have always told me it has something to do with the body needing potassium, “eat a banana” they say…..but It has never really worked for me so im not sure how correct it.

i’m pretty sure it comes from a lack of potassium. you could eat a few more bananas a week & see if it subsides, or, if you’re really worried (or don’t like bananas), consider taking potassium supplements.

Sorry to burst the bubble of potassium, but it is very rare to find anyone whose cramps are due to a potassium deficiency. Bananas are tasty, for sure, but will do little to prevent cramps (despite the folklore about them).

What’s a charlie-horse pain? Like a dead leg or something?

A charlie horse is just another name for a cramp.

Shilolo- I knew it!!! hahaha Thank You! Now people wont think im crazy because i dont think eating a banana helps…........People will think im crazy for other things, but at least it wont be because of bananas

I posted a much longer and detailed answer here.