Lithium as a Supplement: Can This Trace Mineral Boost Longevity and Mental Health

In the world of health and wellness, lithium has quietly re-emerged as a promising trace mineral for mental health, neuroprotection, and even potential longevity. While traditionally known as a mood stabiliser at high doses for conditions like bipolar disorder, emerging research is revealing the benefits of low-dose lithium supplementation. Could this humble mineral be a key to a longer, healthier life?

Let’s dive into the science, the studies, and what you need to know about lithium supplements.

What Is Lithium?

Lithium is a naturally occurring element (symbol:Li) found in soil, rocks, and drinking water. It’s also present in many foods in trace amounts. At prescription doses (often 600-900 mg/day of lithium carbonate), lithium is a well-established treatment for bipolar disorder. But in recent years, there’s growing interest in the potential benefits of microdosing lithium — doses as low as 1 mg to 20 mg per day.

What Is Lithium Supplement Good For?

Lithium supplements are primarily used for:

• Mood Stabilisation: Supporting emotional balance and reducing symptoms of anxiety and depression.

• Neuroprotection: Enhancing brain health by promoting neuron growth and reducing oxidative stress.

• Longevity: Low-dose lithium may be linked to increased lifespan and lower mortality rates.

• Cognitive Support: Potential benefits for memory, focus, and overall cognitive function.

What Is Lithium Supplement Used For?

Lithium supplements, particularly in low doses, are used for:

1. Mental Health Support: Managing mild anxiety, depression, and mood swings.

2. Brain Health: Promoting the production of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), which supports neuron survival and growth.

3. Anti-Ageing: Some studies suggest lithium may help delay ageing and improve overall longevity.

4. Suicide Prevention: Observational studies have linked higher lithium levels in drinking water to lower suicide rates.

The Longevity Connection

Lithium in Drinking Water and Mortality Rates

One of the most fascinating studies on lithium and longevity comes from Japan. Researchers analysed lithium concentrations in municipal drinking water across different regions and found an inverse correlation with mortality rates. In other words, areas with slightly higher lithium levels in the water supply had lower overall death rates.

Animal Studies on Lifespan Extension

In experiments withmodel organisms like C. elegans (nematodes), low lithium chloride (LiCl) doses extended lifespan by up to 15%. The effective doses ranged from 10 micromolar (10 µM) to 1 millimolar (1 mM), suggesting that small amounts of lithium can have a profound biological effect.

Neuroprotective Benefits

Beyond longevity, lithium is known for its potential to protect the brain and support cognitive function.

Epigenetic and Neuroprotective Effects

A study in rat hippocampal neurons showed that lithium canincrease brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), a protein essential for brain health, and reduce pro-apoptotic (cell death) gene expression. These effects may help protect the brain from neurodegenerative diseases. The study utilised lithium chloride concentrations ranging from 1 mM to 2 mM.

Forms of Lithium Supplements

If you are considering lithium supplementation, the form you select is important. Here are the most common options:

1. Lithium Orotate: Popular for low-dose supplementation. Each 120 mg capsuletypically provides 5 mg of elemental lithium.

2. Lithium Citrate: Often used in prescription liquid formulations. Provides about
   8 mg of elemental lithium per 300 mg of lithium citrate.

3. Lithium Carbonate: The most common prescription form. Each 100 mg contains 18.8 mg of elemental lithium.

Note: For low-dose longevity and neuroprotection purposes,lithium orotate is often preferred due to its availability and perceived bioavailability.

How Much Lithium Should I Take?

While high-dose lithium (100-200 mg of elemental lithium) is used for mood stabilisation, studies on longevity and neuroprotection suggest that much lower doses may be effective:

• 1 mg to 5 mg of elemental lithium per day is commonly used in supplements.

• The Japanese drinking water study observed beneficial effects at levels equivalent to 1-2 mg of lithium per day.

However, robust clinical trials are still needed to determine theoptimal dose for longevity.

Influencers Using Lithium

Lithium supplements have caught the attention of several health and wellness influencers. According toThe Atlantic, figures in the biohacking and longevity community are turning to low-dose lithium as part of their wellness routines. These influencers advocate for lithium’s potential to stabilise mood, enhance cognitive function, and support longevity.

The rising popularity of microdosing lithium among influencers reflects a broader trend of exploringtrace minerals for overall health optimisation.

Where to Buy Lithium Supplements in the UK

In the UK, lithium supplements like lithium orotate are available in Youth&Earth's V14 product, an all-in-one longevity formula incorporating V14 longevity ingredients.

Safety and Considerations

• Low-Dose Lithium: Generally considered safe for most people. Side effects are rare at doses below 10 mg/day.

• High-Dose Lithium: Prescription doses (above 100 mg elemental lithium) require medical supervision due to the risk of toxicity.

Always consult a healthcare professional before starting any lithium supplement, especially if you have underlying health conditions or are taking medications.

Conclusion: A Trace Mineral Worth Exploring

The idea that a trace mineral like lithium could support longevity and brain health is both exciting and promising. While more research is needed, the existing studies suggest that low-dose lithium supplementation may benefit lifespan, mental health, and neuroprotection.

As science continues to uncover lithium’s potential, it might be the tiny, overlooked mineral with the most significant impact on our health.

The content of this article is for informational purposes only.
It’s not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or health provider before starting a new health regime or program.
Do not ignore medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you’ve read on this site or any Youth & Earth product.