Have you ever wondered why some people develop Alzheimer’s disease while others with similar early brain changes do not? Scientists have been chasing this question for decades, and now, a groundbreaking study from Harvard Medical School offers a surprising answer that could change everything we know about the disease: a simple mineral called lithium.

Key Takeaways

• Lithium Levels Matter: Researchers found that people with healthy brains have naturally higher levels of lithium, while those with Alzheimer’s have significantly lower levels.
• An Early Warning Sign: This drop in lithium appears to happen very early in the disease process, even before major symptoms or brain damage occur.
• Hope for a New Treatment: A special form of lithium, given to mice at very low and safe doses, was able to reverse memory loss and reduce brain damage.
• A New Direction: This discovery could lead to new ways to detect, prevent, and possibly even reverse Alzheimer’s by focusing on maintaining healthy lithium levels.

What’s the Link Between Lithium and Your Brain?

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