Sipping on Science: The Truth About Hydrogen Water
Key Takeaways
Boasts antioxidant properties and potential benefits like reduced inflammation and improved athletic performance, but lacks conclusive scientific backing.
Research is ongoing, but current evidence is limited. Larger studies needed to confirm potential benefits and determine optimal dosage.
Consider the limited evidence and higher cost before trying it. Stick to regular water for core hydration needs.
Hydrogen water is promising, but more research is needed. Focus on established health practices like diet, exercise, and sleep until then.
Should You Be Drinking Hydrogen Water?
Hydrogen water, a seemingly simple beverage infused with hydrogen gas, has taken the wellness world by storm. Celebrities endorse it, influencers rave about it, and companies are bottling it up and selling it at premium prices.
But is there any truth to the claims surrounding hydrogen water, or is it just another fad?
What is Hydrogen Water?
Regular water consists of two hydrogen atoms bonded to one oxygen atom. Hydrogen water takes things a step further by dissolving additional hydrogen gas molecules into the water.
But how do they do it?
Electrolysis: An electric current splits water molecules into hydrogen and oxygen, allowing the hydrogen to be infused back into the water.
Gas Saturation: Pure hydrogen gas is bubbled through water to increase its concentration.
Tablets: These fizz when dropped in water, releasing hydrogen gas.
The result has the same chemical formula as regular water, but with a higher concentration of dissolved hydrogen molecules.
Benefits of Hydrogen Water
Drinkers of hydrogen water claim there's a range of potential health benefits. One of the most talked about benefits of hydrogen water is its supposed antioxidant properties.
Free radicals, unstable molecules produced by the body and outside factors such as alcohol, fried foods, and air pollution, can damage cells and contribute to illness, aging, and chronic diseases.
The theory suggests that hydrogen gas acts as a selective antioxidant, selectively neutralizing harmful free radicals while leaving beneficial ones untouched.
This potential for cellular protection is linked to even more hydrogen water benefits, including:
Reduced inflammation: Hydrogen's ability to fight free radicals could potentially help reduce inflammation.
Improved athletic performance: Some studies suggest hydrogen water may enhance recovery after exercise and reduce muscle fatigue.
Anti-aging effects: Free radical damage can be linked to aging. Neutralizing them could help promote cellular health and longevity.
Cognitive benefits: Studies have explored the potential for hydrogen water to improve memory and cognitive function.
These claims are certainly enticing, but what does the science say?
Science is Promising, But Not Proven
The research on the benefits of hydrogen water is ongoing, and the current evidence has mixed results. While there doesn't seem to be many hydrogen water negative side effects, some people have experienced bloating or diarrhea when they first start drinking it.
You can go buy a hydrogen water bottle right now, but the optimal amount of hydrogen water and the most effective method of delivery (drinking vs. inhalation still remains unclear.
Some studies also suggest that any antioxidant effects of hydrogen water may be short-lived, with hydrogen quickly escaping from the body. While the science is in its early stages, hydrogen water can generally be considered safe for most healthy people.
However, aside from the science, hydrogen water can be expensive. For one brand in particular, fust four 12oz cans may cost you around $12, while a 30 pack runs you $90.
You can also buy your own hydrogen water bottle for anywhere between $20 to $250.
Should You Drink Hydrogen Water?
There's no right or wrong answer. If you're curious about trying hydrogen water for the first time, but you're nervous, consult with your doctor first.
While hydrogen water is regarded as safe by the FDA, remember that there is no standard for dosage and more research is needed, so concentrations and benefits can differ.
If you're ready to dive into the hydrogen water hype, experts recommend buying products in non-permeable containers and drinking it fast for the most benefits.