Rubidium

Rubidium is found in the rocks and seawater as well as the human body, which normally contains about 350 mg. Rubidium is not yet considered essential. Rubidium is chemically similar to potassium and while some animals can use it instead of potassium for certain functions, this is not known to be true for humans. Rubidium might be a potassium antagonist for absorption and utilization.

Rubidium absorption via the intestines is about 90% and it is found spread throughout the body, with the lowest level in bone and dental tissue. Any extra rubidium is eliminated primarily by the kidneys.

Sources: Food sources of rubidium are not well researched. Some fruits and vegetables have about 35 ppm. Rubidium may also be in some waters. Rubidium supplements are available through Remission Foundation both as pills and a liquid.

Functions: No essential functions of rubidium are known yet. In studies with mice, rubidium decreases tumor growth, perhaps by replacing potassium in cellular transport systems or by attaching to cancer cell membranes. Rubidium is extremely alkalizing. Rubidium may have a tranquilizing or hypnotic effect in some animals and humans.

Uses: There are no mainstream uses for rubidium yet. Its tranquilizing effect could help in the treatment of nervous disorders and epilepsy. It has been used for alkalizing in cancer support and research.

Deficiency and toxicity: Rubidium deficiency and toxicity are not well understood. Rubidium deficiency depresses growth and life expectancy in goats. Rubidium deficiency may increase cancer.

Requirements: There is no RDA for rubidium. The average dietary intake could be around 1.5 mg per day (typical range 1 to 5 mg). Rubidium is higher in certain foods including coffee, black tea, fruits, vegetables (particularly asparagus), poultry and fish. Rubidium is typically high in volcanic soils. (Dr. A. Keith Brewer, High pH Cancer Therapy With Cesium, page 17)

(Much of the summary above is based on Staying Healthy with Nutrition: The Complete Guide to Diet and Nutritional Medicine by Elson M. Haas M.D.)