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Lithium and salt craving?

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Bipolar Disorder
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Posted 12/28/2011 8:49 PM (GMT 0)
Since my lithium dose is up, I've been adding salt to almost everything I eat.  Weird.  We never have salt on the table or add it to food!  I've even been putting it on sweet things like pudding!

I forgot to tell my Dr.  I had more important things to remember!!  I don't feel like it is urgent enough to call in before my next appointment.

The pharmacy sheet on lithium says "be sure to get enough salt and drink enough water".

Has anyone had this happen?

Posted 12/28/2011 9:57 PM (GMT 0)
My understanding is that with Lithium you are to try to keep a regular level of salt in your diet. Like if you spend a day sweating like crazy, you might need some more salt that day. I can't ever seem to drink enough water. It interferes with my sleep, cause I have to get up to pee.
I haven't experienced adding salt to everything, but I do eat salt. How has your thirst been? I would say be careful with the extra salt, and definitely bring it up with the doc next time.
Posted 12/28/2011 10:46 PM (GMT 0)
My thrist has been way up. I have been working out every and drinking extra water. Probably 4+ extra cups a day. I guess that would explain it. TY :)
Posted 12/29/2011 1:40 AM (GMT 0)
I just finished some reading on this for you, Tortoise.

Lithium does cause natural levels of salt in the body to decrease. That
explains your craving for salt. It's a natural result of increased lithium levels.

I.G.
Posted 12/29/2011 6:10 AM (GMT 0)
When you're on lithium, it's important that you give your food a good sprinkle of salt. It depletes it from your body and can cause abnormal sodium/potassium ratios, which can lead to heart and other problems.
Posted 1/18/2012 8:41 PM (GMT 0)
lithium needs salt to be processed through the kidneys. if you dont get enough salt in your diet, lithium will build up. this is why they tell you to never go on a low sodium diet if you take lithium. i have trouble getting the salt i need, so my pdoc recommended adding a small amount (not enough to taste) to my water bottle.

good luck!
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