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Vitamin Guide > Vitamins > Lithium
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Lithium |
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Lithium Definition |
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Lithium is a naturally occurring mineral similar to sodium and potassium that is found in water, soil and a number of fruits, vegetables and other plants.
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Benefits of Lithium |
Lithium offers both short and long term benefits for a healthy nervous system.
It helps to control glucose metabolism, helps regulate nerve impulses, assists in absorption of folate and Vitamin B12, increases lymphocytic production and brain matter.
Influences the distribution of sodium and potassium in the body and may possibly play a role in suppression of cancer and protection of brain and nerves against high levels of glutamates (which can cause the neurons to misfire, causing physical and psychological problems, and in extreme cases, permanent damage).
Lithium also enhances the immune system and regulates the production of serotonin (acts as an antidepressant)
It also affects the way body absorbs the salts.
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Sources of Lithium |
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Lithium is present more in grains and vegetables than in animal proteins.
Sources of Lithium include Vegetables, Lemons, Dairy Products, Eggs, Potatoes, Sugar Cane and grains.
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Deficiency of Lithium |
Those with kidney diseases and dialysis patients are at high risk of developing lithium deficiency.
The symptoms of Lithium deficiency include joint pains, nervous disorders and paranoid Schizophrenia.
Manic depression, infertility, rages and fits, reduced growth rate etc are also symptoms of Lithium deficiency.
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Excess of Lithium |
Usually loose stools (not Diarrhea), trembling of hands, slight muscular weakness, increased urination, sleepiness, severe nausea and vomiting, a marked dizziness, slurred speech, swelling of the throat or neck, increased thirst, Blurred vision, Ringing in the ears, difficulty in walking, Convulsions (seizures) and abnormal drowsiness are all side effects of Lithium overdose.
In such cases, immediately consult the doctor.
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Precautions |
As Lithium is related to sodium, it is important to drink plenty of water.
Do not take Lithium supplements if suffering from any kidney disease. As it will not be cleared from the system properly.
Pregnant and breast feeding mothers should not take Lithium.
Older people too should avoid it as they cannot process water and minerals efficiently.
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