Lithium occurs naturally in trace amounts in soil and water. No dietary requirement exists, and it is not recognized as an essential nutrient.
Low-dose supplements (often below 5 mg elemental lithium) are sometimes sold for occasional mood support or stress resilience. Solid clinical proof for these uses at these tiny doses is missing. Most products use lithium orotate or lithium aspartate.
High-dose prescription lithium carbonate is a proven treatment for bipolar disorder. Close monitoring is necessary because of significant risks. Non-prescription supplements deliver far less elemental lithium. Their long-term safety, even at these lower amounts, is not well understood.
Lithium can disrupt kidney and thyroid function with extended use, even at low doses. Do not take without a doctor's supervision if you have kidney disease, thyroid disorders, or take diuretics, NSAIDs, or ACE inhibitors. Avoid combining with prescription lithium or other medications unless a doctor approves. Pregnant or breastfeeding individuals should not use lithium supplements.