When indeed indicated for bipolar disorder, patients typically present with low lithium levels and very high sodium levels, whereby lithium provides a balancing effect. The intake of higher amounts of lithium has a tendency to raise sodium, and frequently also potassium through its effect on kidney functions, and it has a tendency to raise manganese through its effect on liver functions, so there is a distinct biochemical conflict that has a genetic basis. Otherwise everyone with low lithium levels, would be suffering from manic-depressive episodes. Regardless, it is estimated that lithium resolves Manic Depression in about one third of patients; it is said to improve the lives of another third, and is ineffective for the rest... Full Text