What Is Lithium?
Lithium belongs to the same category as mineral electrolytes like sodium and potassium. Many experts consider it an essential nutrient, recommending a daily intake of 1 mg for an adult weighing 70 kg (154 pounds), which can typically be obtained from food and water.
For the body to absorb lithium, it needs a binder or transporter molecule. There are four common types of lithium used for human consumption, each with a different binder:
– Lithium carbonate: This form combines lithium with carbon and oxygen (carbonate) and is available as a prescription medication.
– Lithium citrate: Here, lithium is attached to a citrate molecule and is also available by prescription.
– Lithium aspartate: This combines lithium with the amino acid aspartate (aspartic acid) and is sold over the counter.
– Lithium orotate: This form combines lithium with orotate, a salt compound derived from orotic acid, which the body produces in the intestines. Lithium orotate is available over the counter.
The Health Benefits of Lithium
Promotes Normal Brain Health
Lithium is often associated with brain health, but its benefits extend beyond what most people realize. It can increase gray matter in the prefrontal cortex, the brain region linked to emotion, thought, and personality, as well as white matter. Researchers believe lithium stimulates the brain to generate new stem cells, which develop into neurons. Some studies suggest that lithium’s neuroprotective properties could revolutionize brain research and the treatment of neurodegenerative diseases. However, other studies indicate that the observed increase in gray matter might be due to MRI imaging artifacts, with lithium-induced brain hydration possibly accounting for the greater volume measured. Despite these uncertainties, research consistently shows lithium’s ability to protect the brain from normal wear and tear and to prevent age-related brain shrinkage. Lower amounts of lithium orotate can support therapeutic brain levels of lithium for extended periods with fewer side effects, potentially transforming brain research and neurodegenerative disease treatment.
Supports Bone Health
Lithium supplementation may enhance the effects of calcium and phosphorus, two minerals crucial for bone formation. Some research suggests that lithium can support bone strength and reduce the risk of fractures. Lithium chloride salt has been shown to help heal bone fractures by activating the “Wnt signaling pathway,” a communication method the body uses to repair damaged tissues, including bone. This healing effect was observed only after a fracture occurred. Lithium chloride also aided in the healing of damaged cartilage.
Improves Focus & Attention
A randomized, double-blind study found that lithium was as effective as a popular medication for improving focus and attention, addressing symptoms like short attention span and mood imbalance. The study examined lithium’s effects on irritability, aggressive outbursts, antisocial behavior, anxiety, and depression in adults, as well as their performance on verbal learning and sustained attention tests.
Supports Immune Health
Recent research indicates that lithium may have potent immune-boosting effects, stimulating the immune system while helping the body resist harmful organisms. Lithium appears to normalize levels of prostaglandin, tiny signalers in every cell that modulate various metabolic actions. Excessive prostaglandin activity can suppress the immune system, but lithium may help prevent its immune-suppressing effects.
May Help You Live Longer
Exciting research from Japan has shown a strong correlation between lithium and longevity. A study analyzing 18 water municipalities with over 1.2 million citizens found lower mortality rates in populations receiving higher levels of lithium in the water supply. Additionally, when Caenorhabditis elegans roundworms were given low servings of lithium, their lifespan was extended. Lithium may have antioxidant properties that provide anti-aging benefits, improving longevity by reducing damaging free radicals in the hippocampus, though it cannot completely counter the effects of chronic stress.
Bolsters Cardiovascular Health
Lithium may enhance heart and cardiovascular health in surprising ways. One study found that people taking lithium had lower “T wave amplitude” on electrocardiograms, an indicator of heart attacks, without any decline in heart function. This was observed at a relatively high therapeutic dose of lithium carbonate, available only by prescription. Early research also shows that lithium boosts the body’s production of VEGF (Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor), a protein that helps form new blood vessels. VEGF restores oxygen to tissues when they are deprived of it, suggesting that lithium may help stroke victims recover by speeding up the regrowth of blood vessels in the brain, known as “neurovascular remodeling.”
Improves Cognitive Function
Lithium encourages neurons to form synapses, the connections between nerve cells. Scientists cultured rat neurons from the hippocampus, the brain region responsible for organizing thoughts and memories, and found that neurons grown with lithium formed significantly more synapses in just four hours. By promoting synapse formation and neuron growth, lithium enhances cognitive skills, memory, and focus. Studies have also shown an increase in neural stem cells, which eventually grow into neurons. Growth has been observed in the frontal cortex, which influences cognitive abilities, mood, focus, and memory. People taking lithium had up to 15 percent higher gray matter compared to those not taking it, though this was in patients taking higher doses of prescription medication.
Stabilizes Mood
Lithium is known for its mood-stabilizing effects. It can normalize mood even in low micro-servings for healthy individuals. Beyond typical mood swings, studies have found that lithium reduces the risk of suicide, even at very low amounts found in water supplies. A study in Texas found that people living in areas with higher levels of lithium in the water had consistently lower rates of suicide, aggressive crimes, and drug arrests. Similar findings were observed in Japan. For less severe mood issues, low servings of lithium may balance emotions and improve responses to temporary anxiety or stress. One study showed that individuals given micro-servings of lithium over four weeks reported steadily improved mood in areas related to happiness, friendliness, and energy.
Helps Headaches
Research shows that lithium orotate is an effective remedy for headaches. One study involving 64 patients found that lithium orotate effectively treated occasional headaches. Lithium is also known to help with various types of occasional headaches, including hypnic or “alarm clock headaches,” which often affect the elderly, waking them from sleep at the same time each night. These headaches disrupt circadian rhythms and reduce restful sleep. Lithium may positively influence serotonin in the body, promoting sleep.
Could Help With Alcohol Cravings
Lithium may reduce alcohol cravings for those struggling with alcoholism. In one study, 42 patients in a rehabilitation facility for alcoholism were given daily doses of lithium orotate for six months. Ten patients had no relapse for over three to ten years, 13 remained relapse-free for one to three years, and 12 had relapses between six to twelve months. The researchers concluded that lithium orotate is helpful in improving situations where alcohol is causing issues. Other studies have confirmed that lithium may help promote sobriety. If you’re battling alcoholism or drug addiction, seek professional help. For those receiving support to quit drinking, lithium may help them stay on track.
Lithium Sources
Like calcium and potassium, our bodies need lithium as a micronutrient. It works with other enzymes, minerals, and vitamins in the body. You can get lithium through an organic, plant-based diet and supplements.
Lithium-Containing Foods
Lithium is naturally present in soil and groundwater worldwide. Plants absorb the mineral through their roots, so the amount of lithium in plants depends on the soil in which they were grown. Foods typically containing higher amounts of lithium include:
– Nightshade plants such as tomatoes and peppers
– Foods made from grains like brown rice, buckwheat, or millet
– Legumes such as lentils and chickpeas
– Herbs
– Seeds and nuts, particularly pistachios
– Coffee
Supplements
While you can get low levels of lithium from food and water, supplements are the easiest way to ensure an adequate intake. Lithium orotate and lithium aspartate are available over the counter as nutrient supplements. Many people prefer lithium orotate because the small orotate molecule enables it to cross the cell membrane, enhancing its potency. Since the body naturally produces orotic acid, it can easily process lithium orotate, requiring only low servings to positively impact physical and mental health.
Precautions & Side Effects
Low amounts of lithium generally do not cause adverse side effects, though you may experience gastrointestinal upset, including nausea and diarrhea. Lithium toxicity can occur if taken in large amounts, with symptoms including nausea, tremors, apathy, fatigue, muscle weakness, and stomach pains. Larger amounts can also adversely affect kidney and thyroid function. Lithium should not be taken by people with kidney disease, thyroid conditions requiring medication, children, or pregnant and nursing women unless directed by a physician. People with heart conditions requiring MAO inhibitors should discuss its use with a doctor. Some evidence suggests that aspartate is an excitotoxin, which can bind to nerve cells and cause damage if taken in too-high amounts. Additionally, taking multiple orotate supplements can lead to excessive levels of orotic acid in the body, causing health concerns. Safe levels are between 50 to 100 mg/kg body weight, equivalent to 2,250 to 4,500 mg orotic acid per 100 pounds of body weight.
