From the Research
Consuming hydrogen water may have potential health benefits, particularly in reducing inflammatory responses and improving antioxidant capacity, as suggested by a recent study published in 2020 1. Hydrogen water is regular water with dissolved hydrogen gas, marketed with claims of antioxidant properties, reduced inflammation, and improved athletic performance. The proposed mechanism is that molecular hydrogen might act as a selective antioxidant that targets harmful free radicals while preserving beneficial ones. Some key findings from recent studies include:
- A randomized, double-blind, controlled trial that found hydrogen-rich water reduces inflammatory responses and prevents apoptosis of peripheral blood cells in healthy adults 1.
- A study that found hydrogen-rich water prepared by alternating-current-electrolysis exhibits hydroxyl-radical-scavenging activities and may be effective in improving diverse diabetes-related markers and systemic DNA oxidative injuries 2.
- Research that suggests hydrogen water may help maintain the redox status during consecutive days of strenuous exercise and might help prevent accumulative muscular fatigue 3. However, it is essential to note that the amount of hydrogen in commercial hydrogen water products is often minimal and quickly dissipates once the container is opened. For those interested in antioxidants, consuming a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and other whole foods provides well-established health benefits. If you're considering hydrogen water for a specific health condition, consulting with a healthcare provider would be more appropriate than self-medicating with an unproven product. In terms of the current state of research, while some preliminary studies suggest potential benefits, these are mostly small-scale, limited research that hasn't been consistently replicated in larger human trials. Therefore, more research is needed to fully understand the effects of hydrogen water on human health. It is also worth considering that the highest quality study, published in 2020 in the journal Scientific Reports 1, found significant benefits of hydrogen-rich water consumption, which may indicate a potential trend in the research.