Hydrogenated Water vs. Traditional Water: Science, Chemistry, and Health Claims Explained

Hey Peak Performer,

Hydrogen-rich water (often referred to as hydrogenated water) has gained popularity for its potential health benefits, but the scientific evidence supporting its effectiveness is still emerging, and many claims remain under debate. In this article we will explore those claims and if there is any scientific evidence to support these claims or just a marketing ploy.

What is Hydrogenated Water?

Hydrogenated water is regular water that has been infused with molecular hydrogen (H?). The idea is that hydrogen, being an antioxidant, can help neutralize harmful free radicals in the body. Proponents claim it can reduce inflammation, improve athletic performance, and even slow aging.

Scientific Evidence:

1. Antioxidant Effects: Molecular hydrogen has been shown to have antioxidant properties, which could theoretically protect cells from oxidative stress. Some animal studies suggest that hydrogen-rich water can reduce markers of oxidative stress and inflammation. However, human studies are limited, with some showing potential and others yielding inconclusive results.
2. Anti-Inflammatory and Antioxidant Benefits: A 2010 study published in the journal Medical Gas Research found that consuming hydrogen-rich water reduced oxidative stress in patients with metabolic syndrome. However, these findings have not been consistently replicated across large-scale studies.
3. Sports Performance: Some research suggests that hydrogen water may benefit athletes by reducing fatigue and muscle damage. A 2012 study in the journal Medical Gas Research reported reduced lactate levels (a marker of muscle fatigue) after exercise in participants who drank hydrogenated water compared to a control group. However, these effects were modest, and further research is needed to confirm them.
4. Anti-Aging Claims: Claims that hydrogen water can slow aging are largely speculative. While it is true that antioxidants play a role in reducing oxidative damage (a contributor to aging), there's no strong clinical evidence that hydrogenated water has significant anti-aging effects.
5. Brain Health: Some preliminary studies suggest that hydrogen-rich water might offer neuroprotective benefits, potentially helping with conditions like Alzheimer's and Parkinson's. These studies, however, are primarily conducted in animal models and have not been conclusively verified in human trials.

Limitations in Research:

• Most of the research is still in its early stages, with small sample sizes.
• Human studies that do exist often have mixed or inconclusive results.
• The potential health benefits may depend on factors like dosage, individual health status, and the duration of hydrogen consumption.

Can Hydrogen Be Added to Water?

Yes, it is possible to introduce molecular hydrogen (H?) into water, but this is different from altering the chemical structure of water itself. The hydrogen added to water remains in a dissolved state, similar to how carbon dioxide (CO?) is dissolved in carbonated beverages.

Here’s how it works:

1. Dissolving Molecular Hydrogen: Molecular hydrogen (H?) can be dissolved in water through a process similar to carbonation. Just as CO? gas can be infused into water to make soda, H? gas can be bubbled into water. The hydrogen does not chemically bond with the water molecules but instead exists as free hydrogen gas dissolved in the liquid.
2. Solubility of Hydrogen in Water: Hydrogen gas has relatively low solubility in water, meaning only a small amount of hydrogen can be dissolved at any given time. According to Henry’s law, the solubility of a gas in a liquid is proportional to the pressure of the gas above the liquid. Therefore, higher pressures can force more hydrogen into the water, but the amount remains limited compared to gases like CO?. Typically, the concentration of hydrogen in hydrogenated water is around 1.6 to 2.5 parts per million (ppm).
3. Chemical Stability: Adding molecular hydrogen (H?) to water does not change the fundamental chemistry of H?O. The additional hydrogen gas remains separate from the hydrogen atoms already bound to oxygen in the water molecule. It does not interact or alter the structure of water, as hydrogen atoms in H?O are covalently bonded and stable.

Does Dissolved Hydrogen Stay in Water?

While it’s possible to dissolve hydrogen in water, it is a very light and small molecule, meaning it can quickly escape into the air if the water is left open or the bottle is not tightly sealed. This rapid loss of hydrogen makes it challenging to maintain its concentration over time, reducing its potential effectiveness as a health product.

Marketing vs. Reality:

Hydrogenated water is marketed as a "miracle" drink, but the actual scientific support is still limited. While some studies point to potential benefits, the claims often outpace the evidence. For most people, drinking regular water is still highly effective for hydration and overall health.

In summary, while there is some promising preliminary evidence, the health benefits of hydrogenated water remain speculative. If you're interested, it may be worth trying, but it shouldn't replace other proven health strategies like proper hydration, a balanced diet, and regular exercise.

Your Sports Dietitian,

Jordan

• Nakao, A., Toyoda, Y., Sharma, P., et al. (2010). "Effectiveness of hydrogen-rich water on antioxidant status of subjects with potential metabolic syndrome—an open label pilot study." Medical Gas Research, 1(12), 1-5. doi:10.1186/2045-9912-1-12
• Ostojic, S.M. (2012). "Molecular hydrogen in sports medicine: new therapeutic perspectives." Medical Gas Research, 2(1), 1-7. doi:10.1186/2045-9912-2-1
• Nishimura, N., et al. (2016). "Effects of hydrogen-rich water on prolonged intermittent exercise." Journal of Clinical Biochemistry and Nutrition, 59(2), 100-105. doi:10.3164/jcbn.15-100
• Nagatani, K., et al. (2013). "Consumption of hydrogen water reduces oxidative stress and improves endothelial function in patients with chronic hepatitis B." Journal of Clinical and Biochemical Nutrition, 53(3), 115-120. doi:10.3164/jcbn.12-12
• Ohta, S. (2015). "Molecular hydrogen as a novel antioxidant: Overview of the advantages of hydrogen for medical applications." Methods in Enzymology, 555, 289-317. doi:10.1016/bs.mie.2014.11.038