Hydrogen water, also known as hydrogen rich water, has become a medical gas solution for many health problems. Studies have shown significant improvements in people who drank hydrogen water, including lower cholesterol and better athletic performance.
Research suggests that drinking hydrogen rich water can contribute to skin health, body composition, lipid and glucose metabolism and autonomic nerve function and reduce oxidative stress.
With results from randomized double-blind and placebo controlled studies emerging, this article will look into the science backed benefits of hydrogen infused water, how it works and how to incorporate it into your daily life for optimal health and wellness.
Hydrogen water is drinking water that has been enriched with molecular hydrogen gas (H2), a powerful and selective antioxidant.
Unlike other antioxidants, molecular hydrogen molecules are small enough to penetrate cell membranes, mitochondria and even the blood-brain barrier, making it one of the best antioxidants available.
The main benefit of hydrogen infused water is to reduce oxidative stress, a major factor in aging and many chronic diseases. The effects of drinking hydrogen rich water has been studied in many conditions including metabolic disorders, neurological diseases and exercise recovery.
There are several ways to make hydrogen infused water:
Electrolysis – using an electric current to separate water molecules into hydrogen and oxygen, increasing the water’s hydrogen content.
Magnesium Reaction – when magnesium reacts with water, it produces hydrogen gas, creating hydrogen rich water.
Pre-Packaged Hydrogen Water – commercially available bottles or cans are infused with molecular hydrogen and sealed under pressure to maintain potency.
Hydrogen Tablets – these dissolve in drinking water, releasing hydrogen molecules for on-the-go hydrogen rich water consumption.
The effectiveness of hydrogen infused water depends on the hydrogen concentration which is measured in the water samples used in studies.
Molecular hydrogen molecules have unique properties that make them different from other antioxidants: Hydrogen molecules can selectively neutralize reactive oxygen species, reducing oxidative damage.
Standard antioxidants neutralize all free radicals, hydrogen molecules target harmful reactive oxygen species such as hydroxyl radicals (•OH) and peroxynitrite (ONOO⁻). This reduces oxidative stress without interfering with cellular signaling.
Hydrogen therapy can modulate inflammatory responses by inhibiting pro-inflammatory cytokines. This has applications for autoimmune diseases, metabolic conditions and chronic inflammation. Drinking hydrogen rich water has been shown to impact gene expression related to inflammation and immune response.
One study found that drinking hydrogen rich water positively influences peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs), which are responsible for immune defense, producing antibodies, fighting infections, and maintaining immune balance.
Emerging research suggests that hydrogen infused water may influence autonomic nerve function which regulates involuntary body processes such as heart rate, digestion and respiratory rate. This may explain why some people experience increased energy and stress resilience after drinking hydrogen rich water.
The benefits of hydrogen-rich water are being studied in placebo-controlled and randomized double-blind trials. Here are some of the most documented advantages:
Drinking hydrogen-rich water has potential benefits for cardiovascular health and metabolic syndrome.
Oxidative stress results from an imbalance between free radicals and antioxidants in the body, leading to cellular damage and contributing to aging and various diseases. Hydrogen's selective antioxidant properties enable it to neutralize harmful free radicals effectively.
✅ Study: A study published in Scientific Reports found that consuming hydrogen-infused water increased antioxidant enzyme levels and reduced oxidative markers in peripheral blood cells. (Nature)
Lipid and glucose metabolism refers to how the body processes fats and sugars. Disruptions in these metabolic processes are a hallmark of metabolic syndrome, diabetes and obesity.
✅ Study: A placebo-controlled study found that drinking hydrogen-rich water for 8 weeks improved blood lipid profiles, reduced fasting blood sugar, and positively impacted body composition. (PubMed)
Athletes experience oxidative stress, muscle fatigue and increased blood lactic acid levels after exercise. Hydrogen water may aid recovery and endurance.
✅ Study: A randomized double-blind study on soccer players found that those who consumed hydrogen infused water had lower blood lactic acid levels and better recovery than the control group. (Healthline)
The liver plays a crucial role in detoxification, metabolism and digestion. Oxidative stress can impair liver function leading to conditions such as non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD).
✅ Study: Research found that hydrogen therapy improved liver function markers, reduced inflammation and enhanced detoxification processes in patients with liver conditions. (MDPI)
Hydrogen’s ability to combat oxidative stress makes it good for skin health. Free radicals accelerate skin aging, leading to wrinkles, pigmentation and reduced elasticity.
✅ Study: A placebo controlled study found that hydrogen rich saline protects the skin against UV induced damage by reducing inflammation and preventing collagen breakdown. (PubMed)
Body mass index (BMI) and body composition are key indicators of overall health. Studies suggest that drinking hydrogen rich water may help regulate weight.
✅ Study: A trial found that hydrogen therapy improved body composition by increasing fat metabolism while preserving lean muscle mass. (PubMed)
Emerging research suggests that hydrogen water may positively influence gut microbiota composition, which plays a crucial role in digestion and overall health.
✅ Scientific Study: A study involving female soccer players found that long-term consumption of hydrogen-rich water improved antioxidant activity and modulated gut flora, indicating potential benefits for gut health. (PubMed)
The ability of hydrogen to cross the blood-brain barrier suggests potential neuroprotective effects. Animal studies have shown that hydrogen water can mitigate oxidative stress injury and cognitive impairment in models of traumatic brain injury.
✅ Scientific Study: Research indicated that hydrogen water alleviated brain edema, blood-brain barrier disruption, and neuroinflammation in a controlled cortical impact-induced traumatic brain injury model. (MDPI)
Chronic inflammation is a common underlying factor in various diseases, including metabolic syndrome, arthritis, and cardiovascular diseases. Hydrogen water's anti-inflammatory effects have been observed in several studies.
✅ Scientific Study: In a randomized controlled trial, patients with rheumatoid arthritis who consumed hydrogen-rich water for four weeks showed significant improvement in disease activity and oxidative stress markers. (PubMed)
Hydrogen water has various applications in medicine. Research shows that hydrogen water may be beneficial for metabolic syndrome, cancer and neurodegenerative diseases.
The antioxidant properties of hydrogen water reduce oxidative stress, a common factor in many chronic diseases. Hydrogen water also has anti-inflammatory and anti-apoptotic effects, which prevent cell damage and promote healing.
Research has shown that hydrogen water can reduce the side effects of radiation therapy, improve athletic performance and even prevent certain diseases. Its applications extend to COVID-19 thanks to its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
Hydrogen water also improves liver function, reduces oxidative stress and supports healthy aging making it a versatile addition to your regimen.
There is no evidence of hydrogen water side effects. Studies have not reported any significant adverse reactions and hydrogen molecules are safe for consumption.
However, individuals with underlying health conditions should consult a healthcare professional before drinking hydrogen rich water regularly.
To maximize the benefits of hydrogen infused water:
Start with 500-1000mL per day and see how your body responds.
Use hydrogen generating bottles for convenience and freshness.
Drink hydrogen water immediately after preparation to prevent hydrogen loss.
Combine hydrogen therapy with a balanced diet and an active lifestyle for best results.
The science is compelling and hydrogen therapy can benefit lipid and glucose metabolism, autonomic nerve function, liver function, skin health and more. As research continues, drinking hydrogen rich water may be a natural way to improve overall wellness.
💧 Ready to try? Get high-quality hydrogen-infused water solutions at The H2 Therapy today!
Yes, multiple studies support its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and performance-enhancing effects. However, results vary among individuals.
No, hydrogen water should be used as a complement, not a replacement, for essential vitamins and nutrients.
Hydrogen dissipates quickly, usually within 2-3 hours after being dissolved in water. Sealed containers help retain hydrogen levels longer.
