Lithium is a hidden ally of brain and nervous system health
Common foods may contain an element that affects mood and brain function. Studies show that lithium in small doses is able to support the nervous system and even slow down cognitive aging. When we hear the word “lithium”, we most often think of, for example, batteries. But this element is found around us much more often — in water, vegetables, nuts, and even in ordinary cereals. And that’s where it works as a trace element, which is beneficial in small doses.
Vegetables and cereals are the main source of lithium in the diet. Coriander, garlic, tomatoes, and spices like nutmeg and cumin are especially rich in them. It is found in smaller quantities in rice, cabbage and mushrooms. Experts have estimated that we get up to 90% of all dietary lithium from plant foods, so vegetarians usually get more of it.
An unexpected source of lithium may be water. In some regions of South America, the concentration in water is ten times higher than in Europe. Seawater also contains more lithium than river water, and this is due to both geology and human activity. Therefore, lithium is even included in the list of substances for which the United States plans to establish strict control.
Fruits also contribute their share. Lemons, limes, tangerines, and grapefruits contain small amounts of lithium, and additionally it is found in apples, bananas, and grapes. Nuts and seeds are another serious source of lithium: cashews, walnuts, pine nuts, and sunflower seeds are especially prominent.
Meat and fish contain lithium in smaller doses, but it is also found there. In a 2021 study in Iran, even canned tuna showed noticeable concentrations of this element.
The most interesting thing starts in the brain. Scientists have found that low doses of lithium can have a protective effect on nerve cells. It affects the work of enzymes and neurotransmitters, helps regulate mood and reduces the risk of inflammatory processes. A study in the journal Nature showed that when lithium is deficient, proteins associated with Alzheimer’s disease accumulate faster in the brain. And lithium replenishment in animals helped slow down the destruction of neurons.
Although lithium sounds like the medicine of the future, it’s important to remember that excess lithium can be harmful. Therefore, we are not talking about pills, but about the very “trace” amount that we get from food and water. It is in such doses that it can work as a gentle and natural helper for the brain.
Published
August, 2025
Category
Medicine
Duration of reading
3—4 minutes
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