From the Guidelines
Consuming 1L of mineral water containing 1.7 mg/L of lithium daily for a year is unlikely to provide significant therapeutic health benefits for most people. This amount (1.7 mg daily) is substantially lower than the therapeutic doses used for bipolar disorder treatment, which typically range from 600-1200 mg of lithium carbonate (equivalent to approximately 113-226 mg of elemental lithium) 1. At this low dose, you might experience subtle mood stabilizing effects or potential neuroprotective benefits, but these would be minimal and likely not clinically meaningful. Some observational studies have suggested that areas with naturally occurring lithium in drinking water may have lower suicide rates and possibly reduced dementia risk, but these associations don't prove causation. The amount in this mineral water is considered safe for long-term consumption as it falls well below therapeutic doses where monitoring would be required. If you're seeking lithium for mental health benefits, proper medical evaluation and prescription-strength lithium under healthcare supervision would be more appropriate than relying on mineral water as a source. It's also worth noting that the provided evidence primarily discusses the management of nephrolithiasis and does not directly address the health benefits of lithium in mineral water 1. Therefore, the most appropriate recommendation is to consult with a healthcare professional for personalized advice on lithium intake and mental health benefits.
From the Research
Expected Health Benefits of Consuming 1L of Mineral Water Containing 1.7 mg/L of Lithium
- The consumption of 1L of mineral water containing 1.7 mg/L of lithium daily for a year may have several health benefits, including:
- Cardiovascular benefits: Low-dose lithium (≤0.5 mM) may be beneficial for cardiovascular function, as suggested by 2.
- Musculoskeletal benefits: Lithium may have a positive effect on musculoskeletal health, including the potential to reduce the risk of osteoporosis, as mentioned in 2.
- Metabolic benefits: Low-dose lithium may also have beneficial effects on metabolic function, including the potential to reduce the risk of obesity and type 2 diabetes, as discussed in 2.
- Cognitive benefits: Lithium may have neuroprotective effects and potentially reduce cognitive decline, as suggested by 3.
- Anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects: Lithium may also have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects, which could contribute to its potential health benefits, as mentioned in 2 and 3.
Considerations for Lithium Consumption
- It is essential to note that the health benefits of lithium consumption may depend on various factors, including the dose and duration of consumption, as well as individual characteristics, such as age and health status.
- While the studies suggest potential health benefits of low-dose lithium consumption, it is crucial to consult with a healthcare professional before consuming lithium or any other supplement, especially for individuals with pre-existing medical conditions or taking medications, as highlighted in 4.
- Additionally, the quality and mineral content of the mineral water being consumed may also play a role in its potential health effects, as discussed in 5 and 6.
Mineral Water Consumption and Bone Health
- The consumption of mineral water with low mineral content may have negative effects on bone health, including the potential to increase the risk of osteoporosis, as suggested by 6.
- However, the mineral water in question contains 1.7 mg/L of lithium, which may have beneficial effects on bone health, as mentioned in 2.
- Further research is needed to fully understand the potential effects of consuming mineral water with low mineral content on bone health and the potential benefits of lithium consumption in this context.