Lithium, traditionally a mood stabilizer for bipolar disorder, is now attracting attention for its potential role in preventing Alzheimer’s disease. Physician-scientist David Fajgenbaum highlights overlooked research suggesting lithium may influence brain aging and cognitive decline.
The Overlooked Potential of Lithium
For decades, lithium has been a cornerstone treatment for bipolar disorder. However, scientists have long suspected its effects extend beyond mood regulation. Studies show lower lithium levels in the brains of individuals with mild cognitive impairment and Alzheimer’s disease, suggesting a link between lithium balance and brain health.
How Lithium Impacts Brain Aging
Animal studies reinforce these findings: reducing dietary lithium accelerates Alzheimer’s hallmarks, including amyloid plaque buildup, tau tangles, and cognitive decline. Restoring lithium levels, particularly using lithium orotate, can prevent or even reverse memory loss in aging mice. These results indicate that lithium plays a physiological role in maintaining brain health, and disruptions in its balance may contribute to Alzheimer’s development.
What This Means for Brain Health Now
Currently, lithium is not approved for Alzheimer’s prevention or treatment, and experts advise against self-supplementation due to tightly monitored dosage requirements. However, this research emphasizes that Alzheimer’s may not be a sudden onset disease. Subtle biological changes, including micronutrient shifts like lithium, could occur years before symptoms appear. Identifying and addressing these changes early may open new doors for prevention.
Rethinking Prevention Strategies
The emerging science suggests that brain health relies on long-term biological balance, not just late-stage interventions. Supporting cognitive health earlier in life is crucial. Nutrient and mineral status, including lithium, can play a role in neurodegeneration. Progress in medicine may not always require new inventions but rather better questions about existing treatments.
The future of brain health may lie in reexamining what we already use. Some answers may be hiding in plain sight.
While lithium is still under investigation, the research reinforces the importance of evidence-backed strategies like physical activity, sleep quality, cardiovascular health, and inflammation management. New tools may eventually complement these habits as research evolves.
Ultimately, lithium’s connection to Alzheimer’s serves as a hopeful reminder that meaningful progress may come from persistence, curiosity, and a willingness to look beyond traditional incentives.
