The Historical Context of Lithium in 7UP
When it was created by Charles Leiper Grigg in 1929, 7UP was originally named 'Bib-Label Lithiated Lemon-Lime Soda'. The inclusion of lithium citrate, a compound used as a mood-stabilizing drug, was a key feature and selling point at the time. This was part of a larger trend in the late 19th and early 20th centuries where soft drinks were marketed as patent medicines, believed to offer various health benefits. The soda was even advertised as a remedy for hangovers. In that era, the medicinal properties of lithiated water from natural springs were widely believed to be beneficial, and adding lithium salts to beverages was seen as an extension of this health trend.
The Shift to a Modern Soda Formula
By the mid-20th century, the era of soft drinks as patent medicines came to an end due to increasing regulation and changing consumer sentiment. The crucial turning point for 7UP occurred in 1948 when the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) banned the use of lithium citrate in soft drinks. This regulatory change forced the company to remove the ingredient entirely. The name had already been simplified to '7 Up' in 1936, and the formula was adjusted to align with new regulations. Over the years, the formulation continued to evolve. For instance, in 2006, the US version of 7UP was reformulated to remove the chelating agent calcium disodium EDTA and replace sodium citrate with potassium citrate to reduce the sodium content. This change was intended to allow it to be marketed as having "100% natural flavors".
Modern 7UP vs. Original 7UP: A Comparison
To understand the significant changes, let's compare the original formula with the current one:
| Feature | Original 7UP (pre-1948) | Modern 7UP (US) |
|---|---|---|
| Key Active Ingredient | Lithium Citrate | None |
| Primary Purpose | Patent medicine, hangover cure, mood booster | Refreshing, lemon-lime flavored beverage |
| Health Claims | Marketed with health claims for mood and stomach ailments | Promoted for taste and "100% Natural Flavors" |
| Sweetener | Likely included regular sugar (less specified) | High-fructose corn syrup |
| Sodium Content | Contained sodium citrate | Uses potassium citrate to lower sodium |
| Additives | Contained specific additives for its medicinal claims | Contains various food-grade additives and flavorings |
Understanding Therapeutic Lithium
While the original soda used lithium citrate, it is important to distinguish this from the heavily regulated and medically prescribed therapeutic use of lithium today. Medicinal lithium is a potent drug used to treat certain mental health problems, such as bipolar disorder. It requires careful dosing and consistent monitoring by healthcare professionals to maintain a narrow therapeutic index, as high levels can be toxic. Side effects can include kidney and thyroid issues, among others. The small, unregulated dose historically included in soft drinks is vastly different from a modern, monitored prescription. For those interested in the current medical use of lithium, Healthdirect provides detailed information on its applications and side effects Healthdirect information on lithium.
Modern 7UP and Your Nutrition Diet
For anyone concerned about their nutrition diet, modern 7UP offers a very different set of considerations than its predecessor. A look at the current nutrition facts reveals a beverage that is essentially carbonated water, sugar, and natural flavors. It contains no fat, protein, or dietary fiber. A 12 fl oz serving contains a significant amount of sugar, contributing to a high percentage of the daily value for added sugars. While it's fine for occasional consumption, it is not a nutritionally dense item and should be viewed as an indulgence rather than a healthy dietary component. A balanced diet should emphasize water, fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, with sugary drinks limited to moderation. For those seeking a healthier version, diet 7UP or sparkling water with lemon and lime are preferable alternatives.
Conclusion: Debunking the Lithium Myth
The question of whether they still put lithium in 7UP is a fascinating piece of food history that highlights the significant evolution of the soft drink industry and food regulations. The legend is rooted in truth, but the practice was discontinued over 75 years ago. The original formula was part of a bygone era of patent medicines, a concept that seems shocking by today's standards. Modern 7UP is a completely different product, free of the mood-altering compound and subject to modern food safety standards. For those focusing on nutrition, the current formula's high sugar content is the primary consideration, not the long-lost lithium.
