Trace lithium levels in drinking water reduce the risk of dementia: a systematic review
International Journal of Bipolar Disorders volume 12, Article number: 32 (2024)
The sample size varied in the studies from 37,597 to 35,000,000. Lithium levels ranged from 0.002 to 0.027 (mg/L).
“We systematically reviewed five available studies, which reported associations between trace-Li in water and incidence [of] or mortality from dementia. Association between trace-Li levels and a lower risk or mortality from dementia were observed at concentrations of Li in drinking water as low as 0.002 mg/L and 0.056 mg/L. Meanwhile, levels below 0.002 mg/L did not elicit this effect. Although three of the five studies found dementia protective properties of Li in both sexes, a single study including lower Li levels (0.002 mg/l) found such association only in women.
Conclusion
The reviewed evidence shows that trace-Li levels in the water are sufficient to lower the incidence or mortality from dementia. Considering the lack of options for the prevention or treatment of dementia, we should not ignore these findings. Future trials of Li should focus on long term use of low or even micro doses of Li in the prevention or treatment of dementia.
