About this video

• Video Title: #1 Trace Mineral to Activate Autophagy in the Brain? Why I Skip Lithium for Longevity
• Channel: Wellness Messiah with Rimon
• Speakers: Rimon
• Duration: 00:21:31

Overview

This video discusses the potential benefits and risks of lithium supplementation, particularly for longevity and brain health. The speaker, Rimon, explores research on lithium's effects on human mortality, autophagy, and neurological function, contrasting findings from human epidemiological studies with animal research. He emphasizes the importance of dosage and questions whether lithium's primary benefits are related to anti-aging or mental health improvement.

Key takeaways

• Lithium and Mortality: Human studies suggest that higher levels of lithium in drinking water are associated with lower all-cause mortality and reduced suicide rates.
• Autophagy and Brain Health: Lithium may activate autophagy in the brain, a process crucial for cellular rejuvenation, potentially protecting against aging and neurodegenerative diseases.
• Inconsistent Animal Studies: While some animal studies (worms, fruit flies) showed lifespan extension, others (fruit flies, mice) did not, and one even indicated a negative impact on female lifespan. The speaker notes that mice, being mammals, are a better model but still showed no lifespan extension, only mild improvements in health during aging.
• Mechanism of Action: Lithium appears to inhibit GSK3, an enzyme that restrains autophagy. This mechanism is present in the brain and kidneys and may contribute to lithium's observed effects.
• Dosage is Crucial: The speaker stresses that low, naturally occurring doses in water appear safe and effective, while higher doses might be detrimental. He advises caution and suggests cycling or imitating water-level doses if considering supplementation.
• Public Health vs. Individual Supplement: The speaker posits that lithium's benefits might be more relevant as a public health strategy (e.g., in water supply) for improving mental health and reducing preventable deaths rather than a standalone longevity supplement for individuals, given the inconclusive lifespan data in mammals.