What's Happening?
A new study conducted by researchers at Harvard Medical School suggests that lithium, a metal found in trace amounts in the body, may help protect against brain aging and Alzheimer's disease. The study examined brain tissue from approximately 400 individuals post-mortem, as well as blood samples and memory tests conducted before their deaths. The findings indicated that higher levels of lithium were present in cognitively healthy individuals. However, as amyloid plaques formed in the brain, they trapped lithium, reducing its availability and protective function. The study also involved feeding mice a lithium-restricted diet, which led to memory problems, while reintroducing lithium reversed these effects.
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Why It's Important?
The study's findings could have significant implications for the treatment and prevention of Alzheimer's disease, a condition that affects millions of people worldwide. If lithium can be shown to protect against cognitive decline, it may lead to the development of new treatments that could improve the quality of life for those at risk of or suffering from Alzheimer's. The research also highlights the potential for dietary sources of lithium, such as seafood and grains, to contribute to brain health. However, the study emphasizes the need for further research and clinical trials to determine the safety and efficacy of lithium supplementation.
What's Next?
Researchers are calling for large-scale clinical trials to test lithium orotate, the form of lithium used in the study, in humans. These trials would aim to establish the appropriate dosage and duration for lithium supplementation. In the meantime, individuals are advised not to self-medicate with lithium supplements, as their safety and efficacy have not been confirmed. The study also encourages lifestyle changes, such as improved nutrition and increased physical activity, as additional measures to reduce the risk of Alzheimer's disease.
