Leading medical experts in Korea are challenging a common health belief, stating that magnesium supplementation does little to resolve eyelid twitching.
Recently, on the YouTube channel "Health Rescue Squad," Professor Lee Seung-hoon of the Department of Neurology at Seoul National University Hospital and Professor Lee Gwang-ryeol of the Department of Chemistry at Korea University discussed the efficacy of popular dietary supplements.
The origin of the magnesium myth
When the discussion turned to magnesium, Professor Lee Seung-hoon clarified the science behind the misunderstanding. "Magnesium is essential for muscle energy production (ATP)," he explained. "Because the eyelid is a muscle, the idea spread that twitching must indicate a deficiency. It is more of a myth than a medical fact."
He noted that the claim has never been validated through rigorous clinical studies. Instead, it originated as anecdotal advice in the West years ago and gradually permeated global health trends, including those in Korea.
Why deficiency is rare in a normal diet
According to Professor Lee, while magnesium is vital, the body only requires a trace amount. "Magnesium is abundant in common foods," he said. "Furthermore, our bodies are highly efficient at recycling it rather than discarding it after a single use. With a standard diet, it is a nutrient you are almost never deficient in."
The real culprit: Aging and nerve control
If not a lack of minerals, what causes the twitching? Professor Lee points to the natural aging process. "Muscles remain stable when they are under the firm control of the nervous system," he explained. "The moment that nerve control weakens, the muscles become 'excitable.'"
He distinguished between two levels of this phenomenon:
Fasciculation: A single, minor bout of muscle excitation.
Fibrillation: A more intense excitation that manifests as visible trembling.
As individuals age and nerve function naturally declines, these involuntary movements occur more frequently.
The physical remedy: Stretching and massage
To relieve eyelid twitching, Professor Lee recommends physical over chemical intervention. "To calm an excitable muscle, you should press on the twitching area and stretch it," he advised. "Because it is physiologically similar to a muscle cramp, massage is the best remedy."
He further clarified that ingested magnesium rarely targets the eye specifically. Instead, the act of rubbing the area helps the magnesium already present in the body circulate and spread more effectively. Professor Lee Gwang-ryeol concurred, noting, "My eye twitches occasionally as well, and applying pressure with my hand consistently makes it better."
Natural sources of magnesium
For those looking to maintain healthy levels through diet, magnesium is most abundant in nuts and seeds, such as almonds and walnuts. Other efficient sources include:
Green leafy vegetables: Spinach and kale.
Whole grains: Brown rice and oats.
Legumes: Various beans and lentils.
