Magnesium Deficiency: From Eye Twitching to Severe Headaches, 5 Signs You Must Never Ignore

Across the world, a deficiency of magnesium, one of the most important nutrients, is extremely common. Also known as hypomagnesemia, the condition is mostly common among those with diabetes, low absorption, chronic diarrhoea, and celiac disease. Doctors say even those who have alcohol use disorder are at an increased risk of deficiency. Magnesium has an important role in calming nerve activity and relaxing muscles, and so, when its levels drop, nerves become overstimulated – causing involuntary muscle spasms. Factors such as stress, lack of sleep, caffeine intake, and dry eyes may worsen the condition. Magnesium deficiency may be underdiagnosed since the signs commonly do not appear until levels become severely low. However, a few of those you

must not ignore in the early stages include:

Eye twitching

Doctors say a lack of magnesium in your body causes eye twitching, or myokymia, since magnesium is extremely important for nerve and muscle function, and low levels cause involuntary muscle spasms like eyelid twitches. While it is also linked to diet, stress, fatigue, and other factors, a lack of this essential mineral disrupts proper nerve signals to muscles, leading to spasms, often around the eyes.

Frequent headaches

Frequent and severe headaches - especially migraines are among the most common signs of magnesium deficiency, as low levels affect blood vessel function and nerve cell stability in the brain, potentially triggering pain. According to doctors, magnesium regulates neurotransmitters and inflammation, and studies say those with migraines have lower magnesium, with supplements often recommended for prevention and relief.

Poor sleep and restlessness

If you have not been able to sleep well in a few days or weeks, it could be a sign of magnesium deficiency. Lack of the nutrient causes inability to "shut off" your brain, as this mineral usually calms the nervous system by regulating GABA, a neurotransmitter, and helps control melatonin, making it vital for falling and staying asleep. Without enough magnesium, you can experience anxious, restless sleep, frequent awakenings, and a racing mind, with magnesium supplements often improving these symptoms.

Mood swings

Change in mood and symptoms like anxiety, irritability, depression, and mood swings are definite signs of magnesium deficiency since the mineral is crucial for neurotransmitter regulation. It helps control calmness and stress. Low levels disrupt the brain's ability to manage emotions, leading to instability and mental health issues. So, according to experts, it is important to consult them if you suspect a deficiency.

High blood pressure

Magnesium deficiency may increase blood pressure and promote high blood pressure, or hypertension – a strong risk factor for heart diseases, including heart attacks and stroke. According to the Food and Drug Administration, evidence suggests that there is an association between diets high in magnesium and a reduced risk of high blood pressure. The United States Department of Agriculture suggests magnesium also benefits women with high blood pressure before, during, and after pregnancy.

How can you increase your magnesium levels?

Magnesium is found in both plant – and animal-based foods, and its richest sources are:

• Seeds
• Nuts
• Whole grains
• Beans
• Leafy green vegetables