Unlocking the Neuroprotective Power of Low-Dose Lithium: A Natural Supplement for Dementia and Brain Health

Lithium is a trace element that has been used for decades, in high doses, as a treatment for bipolar disorder. More recently, there has been interest in the neuroprotective effects of lithium in supplementation amounts, hundreds of times less than treatment doses. As a supplement, lithium is inexpensive and readily available from outlets such as iHerb.

Key Benefits of Lithium Supplementation

Neuroprotection and Reduced Cell Death: Lithium helps protect neurons from cell death caused by various neurotoxic insults, thus preventing or slowing neurodegeneration in conditions such as Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, and traumatic brain injury.
Inhibition of GSK-3 and Protein Aggregates: Lithium inhibits the enzyme glycogen synthase kinase-3 beta (GSK-3β), which plays a significant role in the development of amyloid plaques and tau tangles associated with Alzheimer's disease. This action helps lower the risk or severity of dementia.
Anti-inflammatory and Antioxidant Effects: Lithium reduces inflammation and oxidative stress in the brain, both of which contribute to neuron loss and neurodegenerative progression.
Promotion of Neurogenesis and DNA Stability: It supports brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) production, promotes neurogenesis, and aids DNA repair, which maintains brain plasticity and cognitive function.
Autophagy and Synaptic Maintenance: Lithium enhances autophagy, helping cells clear toxic proteins, and preserves synaptic connections vital for cognitive performance.

Potential Protective Effects

Observational studies suggest lower rates of dementia and cognitive decline among individuals exposed to trace amounts of lithium, even in drinking water. Trace doses appear beneficial for the general population with fewer adverse effects, unlike higher therapeutic doses (such as those used in bipolar disorder) that require medical supervision due to potential toxicity.

Conclusion

In conclusion, lithium's multifaceted actions contribute to slowing or preventing neurodegeneration and dementia by directly protecting neurons, modulating disease-associated enzymes, reducing inflammation, and supporting neuronal repair and regeneration, with most consistent evidence emerging from preclinical models and epidemiology.

Dr Tim Trodd

Family Medicine, Functional Medicine, General Practice

MBBS (London)
DCH (London)
DRCOG (UK)
MRCGP (UK)
FHKAM (Family Medicine)

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References

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