Lithium

🌍 What is Lithium?

Lithium is a naturally occurring mineral found in soil, water, and certain foods. It is widely used in psychiatric medications for mood stabilization and is also present in trace amounts in some supplements and drinking water. While beneficial for some, lithium can trigger sensitivity or intolerance in certain individuals, leading to adverse effects on the nervous system, kidneys, and metabolism.

🤔 Why Do I Have an Intolerance to Lithium?

Lithium intolerance often results from the body's inability to properly process or regulate lithium levels, leading to symptoms such as fatigue, mood swings, or electrolyte imbalances.

• Neurological sensitivity – Some individuals experience cognitive fog, dizziness, or mood disturbances from lithium exposure.
• Electrolyte imbalance – Lithium affects sodium and potassium regulation, leading to dehydration, muscle cramps, or irregular heart rhythms.
• Kidney stress – Excess lithium can strain the kidneys, reducing their ability to filter waste effectively.
• Thyroid disruption – Lithium may interfere with thyroid hormone production, causing fatigue or metabolism changes.
• Cumulative exposure – Repeated consumption of lithium-containing water, supplements, or medications can lead to intolerance over time.

🛠️ What Can I Do About It?

• Avoid lithium-containing supplements and medications unless prescribed.
• Monitor sodium and potassium levels – Ensure proper hydration and electrolyte balance.
• Check drinking water sources – Some regions have naturally high lithium levels in tap water.
• Support kidney health – Drink adequate fluids and consume kidney-friendly foods like berries and leafy greens.
• Assess thyroid function – If experiencing fatigue or hormonal imbalances, consider thyroid testing.

💊 Which Supplements Can Help with Chemical Sensitivities?

• Vitamin B-complex – Supports neurological function and mood balance.
• Magnesium – Helps regulate nerve signals and muscle function.
• Electrolytes (Sodium & Potassium) – Maintains fluid balance and prevents dehydration.
• Milk Thistle – Supports liver detoxification of excess minerals.
• NAC (N-Acetyl Cysteine) – Promotes kidney function and detox pathways.

🌟 Why Might I React to Lithium but Not Other Minerals?

• Individual metabolic differences – Some people process lithium inefficiently, leading to accumulation.
• Lithium affects neurotransmitters – Even small amounts can impact mood and cognitive function in sensitive individuals.
• Thyroid interaction – Lithium uniquely interferes with iodine uptake, affecting thyroid hormone levels.
• Electrolyte dependency – Lithium alters sodium-potassium balance, unlike most other essential minerals.

🍽️ Common Exposure Sources

• Psychiatric medications (e.g., lithium carbonate)
• Mineral water and some tap water sources
• Certain nuts, seeds, and vegetables (grown in high-lithium soil)
• Lithium-enriched dietary supplements
• Industrial exposure (battery production, ceramics, and electronics)

🍽️ Alternatives (if tolerated)

• Filtered water – Reduces lithium intake from drinking sources.
• Whole-food-based mood support – Omega-3s, adaptogens, and magnesium can help stabilize mood.
• Electrolyte-balanced hydration – Coconut water or homemade electrolyte drinks for proper mineral balance.
• Herbal kidney support – Dandelion root and parsley promote detoxification.
• Thyroid-friendly diet – Selenium-rich foods like Brazil nuts help counteract lithium’s thyroid effects.