Supplements for Twitching Eye

Eye twitching is a term used to describe involuntary spasms of eyelid muscles, according to the U.S. National Library of Medicine and the National Institutes of Health. Also known as "eye spasms," this is often a minor health issue. Among other forms of treatment, it can be soothed by taking supplements.

Features

• Eye twitching is characterized by subtle or strong uncontrollable movement of the eyelid muscles. Spasms generally occur on and off for a few days, then disappear. Twitching can occur on the upper or lower eyelid. Constant eyelid contractions can cause sensitivity to light, blurred vision or obstructed vision by forcing the eyelid shut. When twitching occurs frequently, or has begun to affect both eyes, it is given the medical name benign essential blepharospasm.

Causes

• Eye twitching may result from a range of factors: stress, lack of sleep, eye irritation, strain on the eye from prolonged focus, or over indulgence in stimulants like caffeine.

Treatment

• Magnesium and potassium supplements can be used to alleviate symptoms. Magnesium helps to maintain normal muscle and nerve function in the body, according to the National Institutes of Health and the Office of Dietary Supplements. Like magnesium, potassium is necessary for electrolyte balance, proper muscle function and, subsequently, the prevention of eye twitching.

  Stress is often a factor in the development of eye twitches. B-vitamins are also relevant to treatment. B-vitamins are essential for nervous system maintenance and healthy energy levels. Without adequate intake of B-vitamins, nerve-related symptoms of deficiency can occur, such as convulsions in severe cases, and eye twitching in minor cases.

Supplemental Sources

• Aside from capsules, rich sources of magnesium are halibut, green vegetables, nuts and unrefined grains. Potassium can be found in sweet potatoes, beets and yogurt. Meanwhile, a few sources of B-vitamins are shellfish, liver, lentils, potatoes and bananas.

Warnings

• The National Academy of Science's Food and Nutrition Board recommends that foods be used as sources of potassium and B-vitamins be used to prevent high levels of intake.