The presence of trace minerals in our diet is a subtle but fascinating area of nutrition. Lithium, most famously known as a psychiatric medication, is also a naturally occurring element found in small amounts in the environment, including our food and water sources. The concentration, however, is significantly lower than medical-grade doses and poses no risk of toxicity for most healthy individuals. Understanding where and why lithium appears in our drinks helps provide context on our overall dietary intake of this intriguing element.
Mineral Water: A Key Source of Natural Lithium
One of the most notable sources of dietary lithium is bottled mineral water. The concentration depends heavily on the geology of the water's source spring. Thermal or naturally carbonated waters often have a higher lithium content. For instance, brands like Spain’s Vichy Catalan, Portugal's Vidago, and Italy’s San Pellegrino have been noted for their relatively high lithium concentrations. A 2023 study found that some bottled Hungarian mineral waters contained median lithium values of 17.8 µg/L, while specific mineral waters from Spain reached over 1000 µg/L. The levels in bottled water can even exceed local tap water concentrations, making it a potentially significant source for those who regularly consume it.
Other Common Beverages with Trace Lithium
Beyond specialized mineral waters, trace amounts of lithium can be found in a surprising variety of everyday beverages. A 2020 study analyzing 160 drinks in Germany provided valuable insights:
- Wine: Red wines had the highest average lithium concentration among alcoholic beverages, at around 17.88 µg/L, though levels varied widely by grape variety and region. White wines contained slightly less on average.
- Beer: German beers had an average lithium content of 7.38 µg/L. The brewing process, which often involves demineralizing water, is noted as a reason for its typically lower concentrations.
- Soft and Energy Drinks: On average, these contained low levels of lithium, though one acai-based energy drink was an exception with over 100 µg/L. Most cola-based drinks contained very low levels.
- Tea: Tea infusions, particularly red tea (rooibos) and some herbal varieties, contain higher concentrations of lithium compared to coffee. The final amount is also influenced by the water used for preparation.
- Coffee: Infusions of coffee typically contain very little lithium.
Historical vs. Modern Beverages
For decades, health-conscious consumers have been intrigued by the idea of 'lithiated' drinks, a trend that began in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Early versions of certain popular sodas capitalized on this trend:
- 7Up: Originally named "Bib-Label Lithiated Lemon-Lime Soda" upon its creation in 1929, it was marketed as a mood-stabilizing patent medicine. The lithium citrate ingredient was removed by 1948.
- Lithia Coke: In the early 20th century, some soda fountain versions of Coca-Cola were mixed with lithium-bearing water. This is not the case for modern Coca-Cola products.
Today, modern versions of these drinks do not contain any added lithium. Consumers concerned about this element in their beverages are generally focusing on naturally occurring trace amounts, not historical additives.
Comparison of Lithium in Common Beverages
| Beverage Category | Typical Lithium Content (µg/L) | Key Takeaway |
|---|---|---|
| High-Lithium Mineral Water | 200 - 2200+ | Content is highly dependent on source; some brands like Vichy Catalan and Vidago are particularly rich. |
| Average Bottled Mineral Water | 3 - 30 | Levels are generally low but can be higher than most other beverages. |
| Tap Water | Varies widely (e.g., <1 - 1300 µg/L) | Content depends on the local water source's geology. Not typically monitored in the US by the EPA. |
| Red Wine | ~17 | A measurable source, with content influenced by soil and grape type. |
| White Wine | ~13 | Lower on average than red wine, but still contains trace amounts. |
| Beer | ~7 | Relatively low, potentially due to water treatment during brewing. |
| Fruit Juices | ~7 | Contains trace lithium, though amounts can vary by fruit and processing. |
| Tea Infusions | ~2.8 (avg.) | Varies by tea type and water source. Red tea may be higher. |
| Coffee Infusions | ~0.1 (avg.) | Generally very low content. |
Understanding Trace Lithium vs. Medical Dosage
It is crucial to differentiate between dietary trace lithium and the medical application of lithium. The amounts found naturally in drinks are minuscule compared to the high therapeutic doses (hundreds of milligrams per day) used to treat conditions like bipolar disorder. Medical lithium requires careful monitoring due to potential toxicity if levels become too high. Dietary lithium, at its low levels, does not pose this risk. Research into the potential health effects of trace-level lithium is ongoing but has not yet led to a dietary recommendation from health organizations.
The Evolving Research on Trace Lithium and Health
Scientific understanding of trace lithium is still developing, and studies, often ecological in design, have yielded mixed results. Some research has suggested a correlation between higher naturally occurring lithium levels in drinking water and lower rates of suicide in certain populations, prompting interest in its potential neuroprotective effects. However, other large-scale studies have failed to find a significant association, highlighting the need for more rigorous, replicated research. Some studies also point toward possible benefits of low-dose lithium on brain health and longevity, but definitive conclusions have not been reached. These studies involve complex variables, and researchers emphasize the need for caution in interpreting results. For instance, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) monitors for lithium in public drinking water to inform future research but has not set health-based regulatory standards.
Conclusion
Lithium is naturally present in trace amounts in a variety of beverages, most notably certain mineral waters. Smaller concentrations can be found in wine, beer, and tea. However, these levels are insignificant when compared to medical doses and are generally considered safe for consumption. The potential health effects of trace dietary lithium are still under investigation, and any claims of benefit should be viewed with skepticism, as current research is inconclusive. For most people, the trace lithium found in their diet is simply a minor component of their overall mineral intake, with no significant impact on health. As with all things related to diet and health, consulting a medical professional is recommended for personalized advice.
For additional information from an authoritative source, refer to the Technical Fact Sheet on Lithium in Drinking Water from the U.S. EPA.
