You may know that drinking plenty of water will help to keep your body and skin hydrated. But, have you noticed hydrogen-infused water as an emerging health trend? If so, you may be wondering what it is exactly. What are its benefits and is it somehow better than regular water?
Dr. Perricone is a dermatologist, as well as one of the biggest proponents of hydrogen water. It is available on his website along with skincare products to combat wrinkles. Hfactor is one of the companies that manufactures hydrogen water. This brand claims that hydrogen water will increase energy and reduce inflammation. It may have benefits for athletic performance as well. Yet, do scientific studies support these claims, and is it worth the cost? 1
What is Hydrogen Water?
Hydrogen is the lightest element in the periodic table. It has only one proton and one electron. In nature, it exists as a gas made of two hydrogen atoms (H2). Hydrogen water is water that has extra hydrogen gas dissolved in it. It is also known as electrolyzed reduced water due to its alkaline pH (8-10) and extra hydrogen (H2). Hydrogen water has been used for therapeutic purposes in Japan since the 1950s. The Japanese call it “shin’nooru solution” or “synnohl liquid”. 1
Studies in mice show that hydrogen water does have antioxidant properties. It may also prevent brain degenerative disorders such as Parkinson’s disease. Research also supports that hydrogen water increases the amount of ATP. Cells make ATP to use for energy. Hydrogen atoms can reduce hydroxyl ions (OH-) in the body. This prevents them from reacting with other molecules and causing damage. Hydroxyl ions are powerful reactive oxygen species (ROS). They have an unpaired electron that will try to steal electrons from other molecules such as DNA. Hydrogen molecules are able to reduce, or donate electrons, to these hydroxyl ions. This process creates H2O, or water, which prevents cellular damage and inflammation. 2
Are hydrogen water’s benefits worth the hype?
Hydrogen water does appear to be beneficial to the body. This is especially true for athletes who rely on aerobic respiration for energy. Regardless, everyone should drink plenty of water while exercising. This helps to regulate body temperature, improve performance, and prevent heatstroke. One of the by-products of cellular respiration is hydrogen peroxide. This is another reactive oxygen species (ROS) like hydroxyl ions. Hydrogen is an antioxidant that may help to prevent cellular damage due to ROS. 2 It seems that eating antioxidant-rich foods would likely have similar benefits.
So far, research has been done in animals. The long-term effects of hydrogen water have not been well studied in people. If you would like to try it, remember to consume hydrogen water within 15-30 minutes after opening. Otherwise, the hydrogen gas dissolved in the water will escape from its container.
References
- Molecular Hydrogen Institute. http://www.molecularhydrogeninstitute.com/alkaline-ionized-water-history-and-medical-approval. Accessed February 9, 2018.
- Murakami Y, Ito M, Ohsawa I. Molecular hydrogen protects against oxidative stress-induced SH-SY5Y neuroblastoma cell death through the process of mitohormesis. PLoS One. 2017;12(5):e0176992. Published 2017 May 3. doi:10.1371/journal.pone.0176992
