๐๏ธ Why Does My Under-Eye Twitch? 5 Nutrients You Might Be Missing
Common Causes of Eyelid Twitching and Nutritional Deficiencies to Watch
โMy lower eyelid keeps twitchingโshould I be worried?โ
โItโs been going on for days now. Should I see a doctor?โ
โMaybe Iโm lacking vitamins?โ
Twitching under the eye (especially the lower lid) is a common, usually harmless symptom.
But if it keeps happening or interferes with daily life, it could signal more than just stress.
Many people are surprised to learn that nutrient deficiencies, sleep habits, and stress are leading contributors to frequent eyelid twitching.
Letโs take a look at why it happens and which vitamins and minerals can help.
๐ง What Causes Eyelid Twitching?
This symptom, known medically as myokymia, refers to involuntary muscle contractions around the eyeโespecially in the orbicularis oculi muscle.
Most cases are short-lived and harmless, resolving within a few minutes or days.
However, frequent or prolonged twitching may have underlying causes.
โ Common Triggers
- ๐ Magnesium deficiency
- ๐ป Eye strain from screens
- ๐ต Stress and overwork
- ๐ค Lack of sleep
- โ Too much caffeine
โ ๏ธ When to See a Doctor
- Twitching spreads to one side of the face
- Eyelid closes involuntarily or spasms strongly
- Twitching lasts more than 1โ2 weeks continuously
๐งช 5 Nutrients That May Help with Eye Twitching
Several vitamins and minerals play a key role in nerve and muscle function, and deficiency can cause spasms or twitching.
1. Magnesium
- Helps regulate muscle contractions and nerve signals
- Low levels may cause twitching in the eyelid, calves, or jaw
- ๐ Suggested dose: 250โ400mg daily (for adults)
2. Calcium
- Works alongside magnesium to stabilize muscle and nerve activity
- Chronic deficiency may lead to twitching or cramping
3. Vitamin B Complex (B1, B6, B12)
- Supports nerve health and neurotransmitter production
- B12 deficiency can also lead to numbness, facial spasms, and fatigue
- Found in eggs, meat, dairy, and fortified cereals
4. Potassium
- Essential for transmitting nerve impulses and muscle contraction
- Deficiency may cause muscle fatigue, cramps, or irregular heartbeat
- Avocados, bananas, and sweet potatoes are good sources
5. Vitamin D
- Supports calcium absorption and immune balance
- Deficiency has been associated with muscle twitching or spasms, especially in combination with low magnesium
๐ฝ๏ธ How to Manage Eye Twitching Naturally
1. Get 7+ Hours of Quality Sleep
Poor sleep is a major trigger.
Deep sleep (NREM) is crucial for restoring nerve function.
2. Cut Back on Caffeine
Caffeine stimulates the nervous system.
Limit to 200 mg/day (about 1โ2 cups of coffee).
3. Follow the 20-20-20 Rule for Screen Use
Every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for 20 seconds.
You can also try warm compresses or artificial tears.
4. Balance Your Diet
Eat more foods rich in magnesium, B vitamins, and potassium.
If needed, consider a multivitamin supplementโpreferably after consulting a doctor.
๐ฌ What Experts Say
โMost eyelid twitching is harmless and goes away with rest and proper nutrition.
But if it’s persistent, a lifestyle check and simple nutritional adjustments often solve the problem.โ
โ Seoul National University Hospital, Neurology Department
๐ References & Sources
- Seoul Asan Medical Center. When should you worry about eye twitching?
[https://www.amc.seoul.kr] - Harvard Health Publishing โ Causes of Eyelid Twitching
[https://www.health.harvard.edu] - Korean Dietetic Association โ Micronutrient Recommendations
[https://www.dietitian.or.kr] - NIH Office of Dietary Supplements โ Magnesium and Muscle Function, 2023
[https://ods.od.nih.gov]
This article was compiled by ChatGPT (GPT-4.5, as of May 2025).
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