Chronic stress is a cause of neuronal damage. To protect brain cells and help the body handle stress, researchers tested lithium ascorbate in cell cultures and rats. 

How Was The Experiment Done?

In the first part of the experiment, researchers grew rats' neurons and exposed them to glutamate, which is known to mimic stress and kill the cells if present in excess amounts. In treatment samples, researchers added lithium ascorbate beforehand to observe the protective effects of lithium.

In the second part, researchers exposed rats to stress situations such as restraint and shaking. Then, animals received lithium ascorbate and were observed for the next 21 days. Researchers measured levels of stress hormones and immune cells, counted stomach ulcers (a sign of stress), and tracked weight and behavioral changes. 

Key Findings

• Even at low doses of lithium ascorbate, a greater number of neurons survived after glutamate exposure compared to controls.

• Rats on lithium ascorbate had lower levels of stress hormones and higher levels of immune cells.

• Animals that received lithium supplements were more active, less anxious, and explored more compared to controls.

• Despite the stress, treatment groups gained weight due to muscle growth.

• No toxicity was observed.

What Does It Mean For You?

Lithium ascorbate could become a promising supplement for stress management and brain health. It may help protect brain cells, regulate mood, and reduce the physical toll of chronic stress.