Molecular Hydrogen Research
In just 13 years of molecular hydrogen research, there have been over 2,000 published scientific articles on the health benefits of various methods of hydrogen consumption. Publications on human trials using hydrogen as a therapeutic agent are over 120. Hydrogen therapy has been shown to benefit every organ in the mammalian body in over 170 trials.
As of our last update on molecular hydrogen research, there are 128 publications on hydrogen therapy in humans. The majority, 68, cover drinking hydrogen water. Hydrogen inhalation is a distant second with 25 publications, hydrogen-rich saline is third with 11 publications, and topical hydrogen therapy has ten publications, eight of them on hydrogen water bathing. Finally, three publications cover a product used to create hydrogen gas inside the body, two by hydrogen tablets, and one by the drug acarbose, and several additional methods. This totals 130 administration methods because in two of the publications more than one delivery method of hydrogen therapy was used.
Of the 124 human trials, four did not find a benefit. But 120 did, which is a 97% success rate of using hydrogen therapy. Of note, none of the molecular hydrogen research trials that have found a benefit are phase III–type multicenter trials, although many are randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled phase I– and phase II–type trials. As such, no firm conclusions can be made on the efficacy of hydrogen therapy for any of these indications. Also of note, precise dosing and delivery method, as well as the timing of consumption, are not yet established for any indication, and the literature varies widely in this regard.
This molecular hydrogen research database compiles the ongoing human research on hydrogen therapy for researchers and consumers alike and is not intended to be used to diagnose, treat, or cure any disease.
HUMAN RESEARCH ON HYDROGEN THERAPY
Athletic Performance, Recovery, and Athlete Health
Brain Recovery from Acute Injury, Neurological Conditions, and Brain Health
Skin
Rheumatoid Arthritis
Dialysis
Chemo & Radiation Side Effect Reduction
Cancer
Antioxidant
Other
Electrically Reduced Water and Magnesium-Based Ingestible Interventions for “-ORP”
Magnesium Implants
A Sampling of the Many Review Articles
Metabolic and Mitochondrial
There are currently 26 publications on human trials for hydrogen therapy and various metabolic outcomes. Hydrogen water is the most common mode of delivery, with hydrogen water research accounting for twelve of the 15 publications. Two publications discuss ways to produce molecular hydrogen within the body, and one discusses hydrogen inhalation.
1. Diabetes Type 2, Hydrogen Water
2. Metabolic Syndrome, Hydrogen Water
3. Metabolic Syndrome, Hydrogen Water
Song, G., Li, M., Sang, H., Zhang, L., Li, X., Yao, S., Yu, Y., Zong, C., Xue, Y., & Qin, S. (2013). Hydrogen-rich water decreases serum LDL-cholesterol levels and improves HDL function in patients with potential metabolic syndrome. Journal of Lipid Research, 54(7): 1884–93
4. High Cholesterol, Hydrogen Water
5. Mitochondrial and Inflammatory Myopathies, Hydrogen Water
6. Body Comp/Metabolism, Oral H2 Tablets
Korovljev, D., Trivic, T., Drid, P., & Ostojic, S. M. (2018). Molecular hydrogen affects body composition, metabolic profiles, and mitochondrial function in middle-aged overweight women.
Irish Journal of Medical Science, 87
(1): 85–89.
7. Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD), Hydrogen Water OUR HYDROGEN TABLETS
Korovljev, D. & Ostojic, S. M. (2019). Hydrogen-rich water reduces liver fat accumulation and improves liver enzyme profiles in patients with non-alcoholic fatty liver disease: A randomized controlled pilot trial.
Clinics and Research in Hepatology and Gastroenterology, 4
(6): 688–693.
8. Secondary Analysis on NAFLD via HOMA2-Insulin Sensitivity, Hydrogen Water OUR HYDROGEN TABLETS
Korovljev, D., Javorac, D., Stajer, V., & Ostojic, S. M. (2019). Hydrogen-rich water positively affects homa2 variables in physically inactive population. Abstracts from the 5th International Scientific Conference on Exercise and Quality of Life, 3.
BMC Sports Science, Medicine and Rehabilitation, 11
(1): 7.
9. Vascular Endothelial Function, Hydrogen Water, High Acute Dose
Sakai, T., Sato B., Hara , K., Hara, Y., Naritomi, Y., Koyanagi, S., Hara, H., Nagao, T., & Ishibashi, T. (2014). Consumption of water containing over 3.5 mg of dissolved hydrogen could improve vascular endothelial function. Vascular Health and Risk Management, 10, 591–597.
10. Cardiometabolic Risk Factors in Elderly, Hydrogen Inhalation
Korovljev, D., Stajer, V., Javorac, D., & Ostojic, S. M. (2018). Hydrogen inhalation positively affects cardiometabolic risk factors in men and women aged 65 years or older: A preliminary report. European Geriatric Medicine, 9, 729–730.
11. Reduction in IL-1b mRNA in Peripheral Blood in Type 2 Diabetics Post Meal, Acarbose for Internal H2Production*
Tamasawa, A. & Osonoi, T. (2015). Hydrogen gas production is associated with reduced interleukin-1β mrna in peripheral blood after a single dose of acarbose in Japanese type 2 diabetic patients. European Journal of Pharmacology, 762, 96–101.
12. Body Composition, Blood Lipid Profiles and Inflammation Biomarkers in Men and Women With Metabolic Syndrome, Hydrogen Water OUR HYDROGEN TABLETS
LeBaron, T. W., Singh, R.B., Fatima, G., Kartikey, K., Sharma, J. P., Ostojic, S. M., Gvozdjakova, A., Kura, B., Noda, M., Mojto, V., Niaz, M. A., & Slezak, J. (2020). The effects of 24-week, high-concentration hydrogen-rich water on body composition, blood lipid profiles and inflammation biomarkers in men and women with metabolic syndrome: a randomized controlled trial.
Diabetes Metabolic Syndrome and Obesity, 13, 889–896.
13. Peripheral Endothelial Function, Hydrogen Water
Ishibashi, T., Kawamoto, K., Matsuno, K., Ishihara, G., Baba, T., & Komori, N. (2020). Peripheral endothelial function can be improved by daily consumption of water containing over 7 ppm of dissolved hydrogen: A randomized controlled trial. PLoS One,15(5): e0233484.
14. Peripheral Arterial Disease, Hydrogen Water
Gu, Q., Liu, B., Xue, J., Zhao, M., Zhang, X., Wang, M., Zhang, M., Xue, Y., Qin, S. (2020). Effects of drinking hydrogen-rich water in men at risk of peripheral arterial disease: A randomized placebo-controlled trial. ResearchGate.
15. Antioxidant Activity, Diabetes and DNA-Oxidative Injuries, Hydrogen Water
16. A randomized, placebo-controlled clinical trial of hydrogen/oxygen inhalation for non-alcoholic fatty liver disease
17. Biological Effects of Hydrogen Water on Subjects with NAFLD
18. The effect of a low dose hydrogen-oxygen mixture inhalation in midlife/older adults with hypertension: A randomized, placebo-controlled trial
19. Efficacy and Safety of Hydrogen Inhalation Therapy in Type 2 Diabetes
20. Effectiveness and safety of hydrogen inhalation as an adjunct treatment in Chinese type 2 diabetes patients
21. Hydrogen-Rich Water Ameliorates Metabolic Disorder via Modifying Gut Microbiota in Impaired Fasting Glucose Patients: A Randomized Controlled Study
22. Hydrogen-Rich Water Ameliorates Metabolic Disorder via Modifying Gut Microbiota
23. The Effect of Adjuvant Therapy with Molecular Hydrogen on Endogenous Coenzyme Q10 Levels and Platelet Mitochondrial Bioenergetics in Patients with Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease
24. The Effects of 12-Week Hydrogen-Rich Water Intake on Body Composition, Short-Chain Fatty Acids Turnover, and Brain Metabolism in Overweight Adults: A Randomized Controlled Trial
25. Health Effects of Electrolyzed Hydrogen Water for the Metabolic Syndrome and Pre-Metabolic Syndrome: A 3-Month Randomized Controlled Trial and Subsequent Analyses
Low H2 concentration from ionizer, no significant effects
26. The impact of six-week dihydrogen-pyrroloquinoline quinone supplementation on mitochondrial biomarkers, brain metabolism, and cognition in elderly individuals with mild cognitive impairment: a randomized controlled trial
27. Evaluation of the safety and potential lipid-lowering effects of oral hydrogen-rich coral calcium (HRCC) capsules in patients with metabolic syndrome: a prospective case series study
28. Molecular hydrogen inhalation modulates resting metabolism in healthy females
Athletic Performance, Recovery, and Athlete Health
There are currently 43 publications on hydrogen therapy in humans, exploring various outcomes related to athletic performance, recovery, athlete health, and recovery from sports-induced injuries. The overwhelming majority of these studies is again using hydrogen water, with 26 of the publications on consuming hydrogen water orally (although one did not find a benefit), four studies using topical hydrogen water or hydrogen gel, four studies using hydrogen inhalation, one study using hydrogen tablets intended to produce hydrogen gas within the body, one study with H2-rich calcium powder and one study using H2-infused beverage. This total adds to 37, not 36, as one of the studies used a two-pronged intervention of both the oral hydrogen tablets as well as the topical hydrogen-rich gel.
1. Enhances Endurances and Reduces Fatigue, Hydrogen Water
Mikami, T., Tano, K., Lee, H., Lee, H., Park, J., Ohta, F., LeBaron, T. W., & Ohta, S. (2019). Drinking hydrogen water enhances endurance and relieves psychometric fatigue: a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study. Canadian Journal of Physiology and Pharmacology, 97(9): 857–862.
2. Gut Flora in Female Athletes, Hydrogen Water
Sha, J.-B., Zhang, S.-S., Lu, Y.-M., Gong, W.-J., Jiang, X.-P., Wang, J.-J., Qiao, T.-L., Zhang, H.-H., Zhao, M.-Q., Wang, D.-P., Xia, H., Li, Z.-W., Chen, J.-L., Zhang, L., & Zhang, C.-G. (2018). Effects of the long-term consumption of hydrogen-rich water on the antioxidant activity and the gut flora in female juvenile soccer players from Suzhou, China. Medical Gas Research, 8(4): 135–143.
3. Lowered Submaximal Heart Rate in VO2Max Stress Test, Acute Use of Hydrogen Water OUR HYDROGEN TABLETS
LeBaron, T. W., Larson, A. J., Ohta, S., Mikami, T., Barlow, J. Bullock, J., & DeBeliso, M. (2019). Acute supplementation with molecular hydrogen benefits submaximal exercise indices. randomized, double-blinded, placebo-controlled crossover pilot study. Journal of Lifestyle Medicine, 9(1): 36–43.
4. VO2Max and Work Completed, Hydrogen Water OUR HYDROGEN TABLETS
Ostojic, S., Korovljev, D., Stajer, V., & Javorac, D. (2018). 28-days hydrogen-rich water supplementation affects exercise capacity in mid-age overweight women. Medicine & Science in Sports & Exercise, 50(5S): 728–729.
5. Protection Against Free Radical Injury in Athletes After High Intensity Exercise, Hydrogen Water
Sun, Y.-P. & Sun, L. 2017. Selective protective effect of hydrogen water on free radical injury of athletes after high-intensity exercise. Biomedical Research, 28(10).
6. Positive Effects on Redox Status After 3 Days of Strenuous Exercise, Hydrogen Water
Shibayama, Y.; Takeuchi, K., Dobashi, S., & Koyama, K. (2017). Hydrogen-rich water modulates redox status repeated three consecutive days of strenuous exercise. Medicine & Science inMedicine & Science inSports & Exercise, 49(5S): 941.
7. Muscle Fatigue, Hydrogen Water
Aokia, K., Nakao, A., Adachi, T., Matsui, Y., & Miyakawa, S. (2012). Pilot study: Effects of drinking hydrogen-rich water on muscle fatigue caused by acute exercise in elite athletes. Medical Gas Research, 2, 12.
8. Prolonged Intermittent Exercise, Hydrogen Water
Da Ponte, A., Giovanelli, N., Nigris, D., & Lazzer, S. (2017). Effects of hydrogen rich water on prolonged intermittent exercise. The Journal of Sports Medicine and Physical Fitness, 58(5): 612–621.
9. Exercise Induced Acidosis, Hydrogen Water
Drid, P., Trivic, T., Casals, C., Trivic, S., Stojanovic, M., & Ostojic, S. M. (2016). Is molecular hydrogen beneficial to enhance post-exercise recovery in female athletes? Science & Sports.
10. Soft Tissue Injury in Athletes, Oral H2Consumption + Topical**
Ostojic, S. M., Vukomanovic, B., Calleja-Gonzalez, J., & Hoffman, J. R. (2015). Effectiveness of oral and topical hydrogen for sports-related soft tissue injuries. Postgraduate Medicine, 126(5).
11. Responses to Exercise, Hydrogen Water
Botek, M., Krejci, J., McKune, A., & Sládečková, B. (2019). Hydrogen rich water improved ventilatory, perceptual and lactate responses to exercise. International Journal of Sports Medicine.
12. Hydrogen Bathing on Muscle Fatigue, Hydrogen Water Bath
Kawamura, T., Gando, Y., Takahashi, M., Hara, R., Suzuki, K., & Muraoka, I. (2016). Effects of hydrogen bathing on exercise-induced oxidative stress and delayed-onset muscle soreness. Western Pacific Region Index Medicus.
13. Koyama, et al. (2008). Effect of Hydrogen saturated alkaline electrolyzed water on urinary oxidative stress markers after an acute exercise: A randomized controlled trial. Anti-Aging Med.
14. Exercise Recovery, Hydrogen Water
Drid, P., Stojanovic, M. D.M., Trivic, T., & Ostojic, S. M. (2016). Molecular hydrogen affected post-exercise recovery in judo athletes. Medicine & Science in Sports & Exercise, 48(5S): 1071
15. Female Athletes, Antioxidant Capacity, Hydrogen Water
Minghao, et al. (2017). Effects of hydrogen-rich water on antioxidant capacity in female judo athletes in training. Chin J Sports Med.*
*IN CHINESE, ENGLISH ABSTRACT AVAILABLE
16. Lactic Acid Build Up, Exhaustive Exercise, Hydrogen Water
Li Chen. (2015). Hydrogen rich-water on blood lactic acid after repeated exhaustive exercise. Journal of Taishan Medical College. * IN CHINESE, ENGLISH ABSTRACT AVAILABLE
17. Case Study Grade 2 Ankle Tear, Topical Hydrogen Water OUR HYDROGEN TABLETS
Dejan, J. & Stajer, V. Case report: acute hydrotherapy with super-saturated hydrogen-rich water for ankle sprain in a professional athlete [version 1; peer review: awaiting peer review].
18. Exercise Performance in Healthy Adults, Hydrogen Inhalation
Javorac, D., Stajer, V., Ratgeber, L., Betlehem, J., & Ostojic, S. M. (2019). Short-term H2 inhalation improves exercise performance in healthy adults. Biology of Sport, 36(4): 333–339.
19. Acute Ingestion for Exercise Performance, Hydrogen Water No Results
Ooi, C. H., Ng, S. K., & Omar, E. A. (2019). Acute ingestion of hydrogen-rich water does not improve incremental treadmill running performance in endurance-trained athletes. Applied Physiology and Research Metabolism, 45(5)
20. Physical Activity of Athletes, Hydrogen Water
Wu, P. (2020). Hydrogen-rich water improves the physical ability of football players and the anti-fatigue ability of rats, Revista Cientifica, 30(1): 428-435.
21. Acute Hydrogen Water In Endurance Athletes, Hydrogen Water, Very Small Benefit
Ito, H., Kabayma, S., & Goto, K. (2020).Ito, H., Kabayma, S., & Goto, K. (2020).Effects of electrolyzed hydrogen water ingestion during endurance exercise in a heated environment on body fluid balance and exercise performance. Temperature, 7(3): 290–299.
22. Topical Hydrogen Water vs. RICE Protocol for Ankle Tears, Hydrogen Water OUR HYDROGEN TABLETS
Javorac, D., Stajer, V., Ratgeber, L., Olah, A., Betlehem, J., Acs, P., Vukomanovic, B., & Ostojic, S. M. (2020). Hydrotherapy with hydrogen-rich water compared with RICE protocol following acute ankle sprain in professional athletes: a randomized non-inferiority pilot trial. Research in Sports Medicine, 1–9.
23. Exercise Recovery and Exercise Performance, Hydrogen Inhalation
Shibayama, Y., Dobashi, S., Fukuoka, T., Arisawa, T., Koyama, K. (2020). The effects of rich hydrogen and oxygen mixed gas inhalation after high intensity exercise influence on exercise performance. Medicine & Science in Sports & Exercise, 52(7S): 1024–1025.
24. Muscular Damage and Soreness, Hydrogen Water Bath
Todorovic, N. Javorac, D., Stajer, V., & Ostojic, S. M. (2020). The effects of supersaturated hydrogen-rich water bathing on biomarkers of muscular damage and soreness perception in young men subjected to high-intensity eccentric exercise. Journal of Sports Medicine.
25. Acute Use for Exercise Performance-Hydrogen Water, Unclear Results
Botek, M., Krejčí, J., McKune, A. J., & Sládečková, B. Hydrogen-rich water supplementation and up-hill running performance: Effect of athlete performance level. International Journal of Sports Physiology and Performance, 15(8): 1193–1196
26. Hydrogen Water Decreased Lactic Acid and Lactate Dehydrogenase Following Resistance Training, Hydrogen Water.
Moradi, B., Saberi, E., Hasani, & A., Saheb, A. M. The role of drinking hydrogen-rich water produced by alkaline stick on resistance exercise in athletes.
27. Hydrogen Inhalation on Exercise Performance and Post Exercise Stress Markers, Hydrogen Inhalation
Shibayama, Y., Dobashi, S., Arisawa, T., Fukuoka, T., & Koyama, K. (2020). Impact of hydrogen-rich gas mixture inhalation through nasal cannula during post-exercise recovery period on subsequent oxidative stress, muscle damage, and exercise performances in men. Medical Gas Research, 10(4): 155–162.
28. Hydrogen Creating Capsules on Ventilatory and Ergogenic Adjustments During Exercise, Hydrogen Creating Capsules
Alharbi, A. A. D., Ebine, N., Nakae, S., Hojo, T., & Fukuoka, Y. (2020). Application of molecular hydrogen as an antioxidant in responses to ventilatory and ergogenic adjustments during incremental exercise in humans. Nutrients, 13(2): 459
29. Acute Injury Recovery, Hydrogen-Rich Hydrotherapy
Alex Tarnava, A. (2021). Supersaturated hydrogen-rich water hydrotherapy for recovery of acute injury to the proximal phalanges on the 5th toe: a case report. Journal of Science and Medicine, 3(1)
30. Physical Performance of Trained and Untrained Subjects, Hydrogen Water
Timón, R., Olcina, G., González-Custodio, A., Camacho-Cardenosa, M., Camacho-Cardenosa, A., & Martínez Guardado, I. (2021). Effects of 7-day intake of hydrogen-rich water on physical performance of trained and untrained subjects. Biology of Sport 38(2): 269–275
31. Muscle Performance and Oxidative Stress After Severe Exercise, Hydrogen Water
Dobashi, S., Takeuchi, K., & Koyama, K. (2020). Hydrogen-rich water suppresses the reduction in blood total antioxidant capacity induced by 3 consecutive days of severe exercise in physically active males. Medical Gas Research, 10(1): 21–26
32. Increased Peak Oxygen Uptake During Incremental Cycling Exercise, Hydrogen Water
Hori, A., Sobue, S., Kurokawa, R., Hirano, S.-I., Ichihara, M., & Hotta, N. Two-week continuous supplementation of hydrogenrich water increases peak oxygen uptake during an incremental cycling exercise test in healthy humans: a randomized, single-blinded, placebo-controlled study. Medical Gas Research, 10(4): 163–169.
33. Muscle Performance, Hydrogen WaterBotek, M., Krejci, J., Mckune, A. J., Valenta, M., & Sládečková, B. (2021). Hydrogen rich water consumption positively affects muscle performance, lactate response, and alleviates delayed onset of muscle soreness after resistance training. Journal of Strength and Conditioning Research,
34. Ventilatory and Ergogenic Adjustments During Incremental Exercise, H2 – Rich Calcium Powder
Alharbi, A. A. D., Ebine, N., Nakae, S., Hojo, T., & Fukuoka, Y. (2021). Application of Molecular Hydrogen as an Antioxidant in Responses to Ventilatory and Ergogenic Adjustments during Incremental Exercise in Humans. Nutrients, 13(2): 459.
35. Facilitation of Lipid Metabolism During Aerobic Exercise, Hydrogen Inhalation
36. Exercise and Cognitive Performance, H2-Infused Beverage
37. Effects of pre-exercise H2 inhalation on physical fatigue and related prefrontal cortex activation
38. Hydrogen Rich Water Consumption Positively Affects Muscle Performance
39. Short-Term Consumption of Hydrogen-Rich Water Enhances Power Performance and Heart Rate Recovery
40. Effects of Intestinal Bacterial Hydrogen Gas Production on Muscle Recovery following Intense Exercise in Adult Men
41. Effect of CO2 and H2 gas mixture in cold water immersion on recovery after eccentric loading
42. Supplementation With Hydrogenated Water Reduces The Manifestations Of Post-exercise Muscle Pain After Endurance Running In Untrained Men.
Reduced muscle soreness, measured in legs, in untrained individuals after running 5km.
43. Hydrogen-rich water supplementation promotes muscle recovery after two strenuous training sessions performed on the same day in elite fin swimmers.
44. Effects of 8 days intake of hydrogen-rich water on muscular endurance performance and fatigue recovery during resistance training
Brain Recovery From Acute Injury, Neurological Conditions, and Brain Health
There are currently 21 publications exploring various neurological outcomes from hydrogen therapy in humans. Regarding hydrogen therapy and the brain, the methods are more spread out, with seven of the 16 studies involving hydrogen water (although one did not find a benefit), six of the studies using hydrogen inhalation (although two did not find a benefit), two of the studies using hydrogen-rich saline, one using intravenous hydrogen therapy and one using H2-infused, nitric oxide-producing functional beverage.
1. Mild Cognitive Impairment, Hydrogen Water
Nishimaki, K., Asada, T., Ohsawa, I., Nakajima, E., Ikejima, C., Yokota, T., Kamimura, N., & Ohta, S. (2018). Effects of molecular hydrogen assessed by an animal model and a randomized clinical study on mild cognitive impairment. Current Alzheimer Research., 15(5): 482–492.
2. Improving Outcomes of Alzheimer’s, Hydrogen Inhalation
Ono, H., Nishijima, Y., Sakamoto, M., Horikosi, T., Tamaki, M., Oishi, W., Naitoh, Y., Futaki, T., Ishii, S., Suzuki, K., Kurihara H., & Ohta, S. (2018). Pilot Study on Therapeutic Inhalation of Hydrogen Gas for Improving Patients with Alzheimer’s Disease Assessed by Cognitive Subscale Scores and Magnetic Resonance Diffusion Tensor Imaging. International Journal of Alzheimers & Neurological Disorders, 1(1): 004.
3. Acute Cerebral Infarction, Hydrogen Inhalation
Ono, H., Nishijima, Y., Ohta, S., Sakamoto, M., Kinone, K., Horikosi, T., Tamaki, M., Takeshita, H., Futatuki, T., Ohishi, W., Ishiguro, T., Okamoto, S., Ihsii, S., & Takanami, H. (2017). Hydrogen gas inhalation treatment in acute cerebral infarction: A randomized controlled clinical study on safety and neuroprotection. Journal of Stroke & Cerebrovascular Diseases, 26(11): 2587–2594.
4. Acute Cerebral Ischemia, Hydrogen Inhalation
Ono, H., Nishijima, Y., Adachi, N., Sakamoto, M., Kudo, Y., Kaneko, K., Nakao, A., & Imaoka, T. (2012). A basic study on molecular hydrogen (H2) inhalation in acute cerebral ischemia patients for safety check with physiological parameters and measurement of blood H2 level. Medical Gas Research, 9(21).
5. Acute Brain Stem Infarct, Hydrogen Saline + Edaravone
Ono, H., Nishijima, Y., Adachi, N., Tachibana, S., Chitoku, S., Mukaihara, S., Sakamoto, M., Kudo, Y., Nakazawa, J., Kanedo, K., & Nawashiro, H. (2011). Improved brain MRI indices in the acute brain stem infarct sites treated with hydroxyl radical scavengers, Edaravone and hydrogen, as compared to Edaravone alone. a non-controlled study. Medical Gas Research, 1(12).
6. Acute Cerebral Infarction, Hydrogen Saline + Edaravone
Nagatani, K., Nawashiro, H., Takeuchi, S., Tomura, S., Otani, N., Osada, H., Wada, K., Katch, H., Tsuzuki, N., & Mori, K. (2013). Safety of intravenous administration of hydrogen-enriched fluid in patients with acute cerebral ischemia: initial clinical studies. Medical Gas Research, 3: 13.
7. Newborn Abnormal Neurological Function, Hydrogen Water
Yang, L, Li, D., & Chen, S. (2016). Hydrogen water reduces NSE, IL-6, and TNF-α levels in hypoxic-ischemic encephalopathy. Open Medicine, 11(1): 399–406.
8. Parkinson’s, Hydrogen Water
Yoritaka, A., Takanashi, M., Hirayama, M., Nakahara, T., Ohta, S., & Hattori, N. (2013). Pilot study of H₂ therapy in parkinson’s disease: a randomized double-blind placebo-controlled trial. Movement Disorders, 28(6): 836–9.
9. Parkinson’s Disease, No Result, Hydrogen Water****
Yoritaka et al., (2018). Randomized, double-blind, multicenter trial of hydrogen water for Parkinson’s disease. Movement Disorders.
****This one needs some context. There were massive failures in this trial, namely there were mix ups in the placebo control group where they were intermittently given high doses of hydrogen in the water. Both placebo and control saw significant improvements over expectations and analysis against similar trials, but no benefit against each other. Both were receiving high dose hydrogen. One daily, the other perhaps every other day, and daily receiving at least 0.16mg/L cited in paper. The exact routine is unknown. There is currently underway a 52-week, 70-participant trial on Parkinson’s Disease in the USA. The registration can be found here
Regardless, we cannot state that H2 is beneficial for PD. We simply do not know. I cannot overstate this enough. We do not know, and it is unethical for marketers to push H2 for patients with PD.
10. Parkinson’s Disease, No Result, Hydrogen Inhalation
Hirayama, M., Ito, M., Minato, T., Yoritaka, A., LeBaron, T. W., & Ohno, K. (2018). Inhalation of hydrogen gas elevates urinary 8-hydroxy-2′-deoxyguanine in Parkinson’s disease. Medical Gas Research, 8(4): 144–149.
11. Concussion Recovery Case Study, Hydrogen Water OUR HYDROGEN TABLETS
Javorac, D., Stajer, V., & Ostojic, S. M. (2019). Case Report: Buccal Administration of Hydrogen-Producing Blend After a Mild Traumatic Brain Injury in a Professional Athlete. [version 1; peer review: 2].F1000 Research, 8: 1024.
12. Cognitive Function in Elderly, Hydrogen Inhalation
13. Hydrogen Water vs. Caffeine for Improving Alertness After Sleep Deprivation, Hydrogen Water OUR HYDROGEN WATER TABLETS
14. Photobiomodulation on Parkinson Disease, Hydrogen Water
Hong, C.-T., Hu, C. J., Lin, H.-Y., & Wu, D. (2021). Effects of concomitant use of hydrogen water and photobiomodulation on Parkinson disease: A pilot study. Medicine (Baltimore), 100(4): e24191.
15. Subarachnoid Hemorrhage, Intravenous Hydrogen Therapy
16. Parkinson’s Disease, No Result, Hydrogen Inhalation
17. Neuroprotective Agent for TBIs and Concussions, An H2-Infused, Nitric Oxide-Producing Beverage
18. Efficacy of inhaled hydrogen on neurological outcome following brain ischaemia
19. Effects of Hydrogen Gas Inhalation on Community-Dwelling Adults of Various Ages: A Single-Arm, Open-Label, Prospective Clinical Trial
20. Molecular hydrogen modulates brain glutamate/GABA-glutamine cycle in overweight humans
21. Successful treatment of myalgic encephalomyelitis/chronic fatigue syndrome using hydrogen gas
Skin
There are currently 16 publications exploring various skin-related outcomes from hydrogen therapy in humans. Five of these studies used topical hydrogen water, three used consumed hydrogen water, two used hydrogen-rich saline, and one used hydrogen inhalation. This adds to 13 methods of administration of hydrogen therapy in 11 publications, as one of the studies explored the use of inhaled hydrogen, consumed hydrogen water, and hydrogen-rich saline simultaneously.
1. Psoriasis, Hydrogen Water Baths
Zhu, Q., Wu, Y., Li, Y, Chen. Z., Wang, L., Xiong, H., Dai, E., Wu, J., Fan, B., Ping, L., Luo, X. (2018). Positive effects of hydrogen-water bathing in patients of psoriasis and parapsoriasis en plaques. Sci Rep 8, 8051.
2. Wrinkles Reduction, Hydrogen Water Baths
Kato, S., Saitoh, Y., Iwai, K., & Miwa, N. (2012). Hydrogen-rich electrolyzed warm water represses wrinkle formation against uva ray together with type-i collagen production and oxidative-stress diminishment in fibroblasts and cell-injury prevention in keratinocytes. Journal of Photochemistry and Photobiology, 106, 24–33.
3. Red Skin/Inflamed Diseases, Hydrogen Saline
Ono, H., Nishijima, Y., Adachi, N., Sakamoto, M., Kudo, Y., Nakazawa, J., Kaneko, K., & Nakao, A. (2012). Hydrogen(H2) treatment for acute erythymatous skin diseases. A report of 4 patients with safety data and a non-controlled feasibility study with H2 concentration measurement on two volunteers. Medical Gas Research, 2(1): 14.
4. Psoriasis, Skin Lesions, Case Studies, Hydrogen Water+Saline+Gas
Ishibashi, T., Ichikawa, M., Sato, B., Shibata, S., Hara, Y., Naritomi, Y., Okazaki, K., Nakashima, Y., Iwamoto, Y., Koyanagi, S., Hara, H., & Nagao, T. (2015). Improvement of psoriasis-associated arthritis and skin lesions by treatment with molecular hydrogen: A report of three cases. Molecular Medicine Reports, 12(2): 2757–64.
5. Pressure Ulcers, Hydrogen Water
Li, Q., Kato, S., Matsuoka, D., Tanaka, H., & Miwa, N. (2013). Hydrogen water intake via tube-feeding for patients with pressure ulcer and its reconstructive effects on normal human skin cells in vitro. Medical Gas Research, 3(1): 20.
6. Graft vs. Host Disease Case Study, Hydrogen Water (Drinking)
7. UV Damage in Skin in Vivo, Topical Hydrogen Water
8. Keratin Plugged Hair Pores, Hydrogen Water Baths
9. Visceral Fat and Skin Blotches, Hydrogen Water Baths
Asada, R., Saitoh, Y., & Miwa, N. (2019). Effects of hydrogen-rich water bath on visceral fat and skin blotch, with boiling-resistant hydrogen bubbles. Medical Gas Research, 9(2): 68–73.
10. Skin Aging and Antioxidant Activity, Hydrogen Water Mask
11. Heat Retention Effects, Hydrogen Baths
Kato, S., Takada, Y., & Miwa, N. (2021). Heat-retention effects of hydrogen-rich water bath assessed by thermography for humans. Journal of Thermal Biology, 95: 102805.
12. Acne Vulgaris in Adult Women, Topical Hydrogen Purification
Chilicka, K., Rogowska, A., & Szyguła, R. (2021). Effects of topical hydrogen purification on skin parameters and acne vulgaris in adult women. Healthcare, 9(2): 144.
13. Hydrogen-Rich Water Improve Wrinkles and Blotches
14. Hydrogen-rich bath with nano-sized bubbles improves antioxidant capacity
15. Repetitive Bathing and Skin Poultice with Hydrogen-Rich Water Improve Wrinkles and Blotches
16. The effects of hydrogen-oxygen mixed gas on skin blood flow in healthy adults
Rheumatoid Arthritis
Despite early and promising results, there are only two clinical trials exploring the benefits of hydrogen therapy for rheumatoid arthritis. In one of the studies, results were seen from high-dose hydrogen water, and in the other study, from hydrogen-rich saline.
1. Rheumatoid Arthritis, Hydrogen Saline
Ishibashi, T., Sato, B., Shibata, S., Sakai, T., Hara, Y., Naritomi, Y., Koyanagi, S., Hara, H., & Nagao, T. (2014). Therapeutic efficacy of infused molecular hydrogen in saline on rheumatoid arthritis: a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled pilot study. International Immunopharmacology, 21(2): 468–73.
2. Rheumatoid Arthritis, Hydrogen Water
Ishibashi, T., Sato, B., Rikitake, M., Seo, T., Kurokawa, R., Hara, Y., Naritomi, Y., Hara, H., & Nagao, T. (2012). Consumption of water containing a high concentration of molecular hydrogen reduces oxidative stress and disease activity in patients with rheumatoid arthritis: An open-label pilot study. Medical Gas Research, 2(1): 27.
Dialysis
There are currently six publications on human trials using hydrogen therapy for patients on dialysis, all of which delivered the hydrogen gas via hydrogen-rich saline.
1. Peritoneal Dialysis, Hydrogen Rich Dialysate
Terawaki, H., Hayashi, Y., Zhu, W.-J., Matsuyama, Y., Terada, T., Kabayama, S., Watanabe, T., Era, S., Sato, B., & Nakayama, M. (2013). Transperitoneal administration of dissolved hydrogen for peritoneal dialysis patients: a novel approach to suppress oxidative stress in the peritoneal cavity. Medical Gas Research, 3, Article 14.
2. Kidney Dialysis for Inflammation, Hydrogen Saline
3. Low Hydrogen Dialysis
4. Improvement in Chronic Dialysis Patients, Hydrogen Rich Dialysis
Nakayama, M., Itami, N., Suzuki, H., Hamada, H., Yamamoto, R., Tsunoda, K., Osaka, N., Nakano, H., Maruyama, Y., Kabayama, S., Nakazawa, R., Miyazaki, M., & Ito, S. (2018). Novel haemodialysis (HD) treatment employing molecular hydrogen (H2)-enriched dialysis solution improves prognosis of chronic dialysis patients: A prospective observational study. Scientific Reports, 8, Article 254.
5. Improvement of the Fraction of Human Mercaptalbumin on Hemodialysis Treatment, Hydrogen Rich Dialysis
6. Interim Analysis, Observational Improvements Over 12 Months in 262 Patients on Dialysis, Hydrogen Rich Dialysis
Nakayama, M., Itami, N., Suzuki, H., Hamada, H., Osaka, N., Yamamoto, R., Tsunoda, K., Nakano, H., Watanabe, K., Zhu, W.-J., Maruyama, Y., Terawaki, H., Kabayama, S., Nakazawa, R., Miyazaki, M., & Ito, S. (2017). Possible clinical effects of molecular hydrogen (H2) delivery during hemodialysis in chronic dialysis patients: Interim analysis in a 12 month observation. PLOS One, 12(9): e0184535.
Chemo & Radiation Side Effect Reduction
There are currently two published clinical trials exploring the efficacy of hydrogen therapy for the reduction of side effects associated with chemotherapy and radiation therapy. Both of these trials used hydrogen water as the delivery method.
1. Reduction in Side Effects in Radiation Therapy Cancer Patients, Hydrogen Water
Kang, K.-M., Kang, Y.-N., Choi, I.-B., Gu, Y., Kawamura, T., Toyoda, Y., & Nakao, A. (2011). Effects of drinking hydrogen-rich water on the quality of life of patients treated with radiotherapy for liver tumors. Medical Gas Research, 1(1): 11.
2. Improved Liver Function on Patients on Chemotherapy, Hydrogen Water
Yang, Q., Ji, G., Pan, R., Zhao, Y., & Yan, P. (2017). Protective effect of hydrogen-rich water on liver function of colorectal cancer patients treated with mFOLFOX6 chemotherapy. Molecular and Clinical Oncology, 7(5): 891–896.
Cancer
There are currently six published articles on the use of hydrogen therapy in cancer patients to address the cancer itself. All three of these trials used hydrogen inhalation as the delivery method.
1. Colorectal Cancer, Hydrogen Gas Inhalation
Akagi, J., & Baba, H. (2019). Hydrogen gas restores exhausted CD8+ T cells in patients with advanced colorectal cancer to improve prognosis. Oncology Reports, 41(1): 301–311.
2. Stage III and Stage IV Cancer, Cohort, Hydrogen Inhalation
Chen, J.-B., Kong, X.-F., Lv, Y.-Y., Qin, S.-C., Sun, X.-J., Mu, F., Lu, T.-Y., & Xu, K.-C. (2019). “Real world survey” of hydrogen-controlled cancer: A follow-up report of 82 advanced cancer patients. Medical Gas Research, 9(3): 115–121.
3. Case Study Gallbladder Cancer, Hydrogen Inhalation
Chen, J.-B., Mu, F., Lu, T., Ma, Y., Du, D., & Xu, K. (2019). A gallbladder carcinoma patient with pseudo-progressive remission after hydrogen inhalation. OncoTargets and Therapy, 12, 8645–8651.
Chen, J.-B., Pan, Z.-B., Du, D.-M., Qian, W., Ma, Y.-Y., Mu, F., & Xu, K.-C. (2019). Hydrogen gas therapy induced shrinkage of metastatic gallbladder cancer: A case report. World Journal of Clinical Cases, 7(15): 2065–2074.
4. Bone Marrow, Hydrogen Inhalation
5. Lung Cancer, Hydrogen Gas
Akagi, J., & Baba, H. (2020). Hydrogen gas activates coenzyme Q10 to restore exhausted CD8+ T cells, especially PD-1+Tim3+terminal CD8+ T cells, leading to better nivolumab outcomes in patients with lung cancer. Spandidos Publications, Article 258.
6. Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer, Hydrogen Inhalation
Chen, J.-B., Kong, X.-F., Qian, W., Mu, F., Lu, T.-Y., Lu, Y.-Y., & Xu, K.-C. (2020). Two weeks of hydrogen inhalation can significantly reverse adaptive and innate immune system senescence patients with advanced non-small cell lung cancer: A self-controlled study. Medical Gas Research, 10(4), 149–154.
Antioxidant
There are four publications that exclusively explore hydrogen therapy for its antioxidant-like behavior in humans. All four of these trials used hydrogen water as the delivery method.
1. Serum Antioxidant Status in Healthy Men, Hydrogen Water
Trivic, T., Vojnovic, M., Drid, P., & Ostojic, S. M. (2017). Drinking hydrogen-rich water for 4 weeks positively affects serum antioxidant enzymes in healthy men: A pilot study. Current Topics in Nutraceutical Research, 15(1).
2. Blood Alkalization, Hydrogen Water
Trivic, T., Vojnovic, M., Drid, P., & Ostojic, S. M. (2017). Drinking hydrogen-rich water for 4 weeks positively affects serum antioxidant enzymes in healthy men: A pilot study. Current Topics in Nutraceutical Research, 15(1).
3. Reduction in Inflammatory Responses, Hydrogen Water
Sim, M., Kim, C.-S., Shon, W.-J., Lee, Y.-K., Choi, E. Y., & Shin, D.-M. (2020). Hydrogen-rich water reduces inflammatory responses an prevents apoptosis of peripheral blood cells in healthy adults: A randomized, double-blind, controlled trial. Scientific Reports, 10(1): 12130.
4. Antioxidant Capacity, Hydrogen Water
Other
There are 39 other publications on molecular hydrogen research/ trials with humans that do not fall under any of the previous umbrella categories but explore the use of hydrogen therapy for a beneficial response. Fifteen of these 25 trials used hydrogen water as the delivery method, although one did not find a statistically significant result but did note a potential responder group. Nine trials used hydrogen inhalation.
1. Hepatitis B, Hydrogen Water
Xia, C., Liu, W., Zeng, D., Zhu, L., Sun, X., & Sun, X. (2013). Effect of hydrogen-rich water on oxidative stress, liver function, and viral load in patients with chronic hepatitis B. Clinical and Translational Science, 6(5): 372–5.
2. Post-Cardiac Arrest, Hydrogen Inhalation
3. Heart Surgery, Hydrogen Inhalation
4. Hydrogen-Rich Water for Improvements of Mood, Anxiety and Autonomic Nerve Function in Daily Life, Hydrogen Water
5. Periodontitis and Antioxidant Status, Hydrogen Water
Azuma, T., Yamane, M., Ekuni, D., Kawabata, Y., Kataoka, K., Kasuyama, K., Maruyama, T., Tomofuji, T., & Morita, M. (2015). Drinking hydrogen-rich water has additive effects on non-surgical periodontal treatment of improving periodontitis: A pilot study. Antioxidants, 4(3): 513–522.
6. Blood Alkalization, Hydrogen Water
Ostojic, S. M. (2012). Serum alkalinization and hydrogen-rich water in healthy men. Mayo Clinic Proceedings, 87(5): 501–502.
7. Blood Alkalization, Hydrogen Water
Ostojic, S. M., & Stojanovic, M. D. (2012). Hydrogen-rich water affected blood alkalinity in physically active men. Research in Sports Medicine, 22(1): 49–60.
8. Painful Bladder Syndrome, Hydrogen Water (Did Not Work, Potential Small Responder Group)
Matsumoto, S., Ueda, T., & Kakizaki, H. (2013). Effect of supplementation with hydrogen-rich water in patients with interstitial cystitis/painful bladder syndrome. Urology, 81(2): 226–230.
9. Fecal Matter and Reported Sleep Function, Hydrogen Water
Tanaka, Y., Saihara, Y., Izumotani, K., & Nakamura, H. (2018). Daily ingestion of alkaline electrolyzed water containing hydrogen influences human health, including gastrointestinal symptoms. Medical Gas Research, 8(4): 160–166.
10. Tracheal Stenosis (Cause Not Stated, Radiation Therapy?), Hydrogen Inhalation
11. Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD), Hydrogen-Rich Water
Franceschelli, S., Gatta, D. M. P., Pesce, M., Ferrone, A., Di Martino, G., Di Nicola, M., De Lutiis, M. A., Vitacolonna, E., Patruno, A., Grilli, A., Felaco, M., & Speranza, L. (2018). Modulation of the oxidative plasmatic state in gastroesophageal reflux disease with the addition of rich water molecular hydrogen: A new biological vision. Journal of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, 22(5): 2750–2759.
12. Inflammation and Apoptosis Reduction in Healthy Individuals, Hydrogen Water
Sim, M., Kim, C.-S., Shon, W.-J., Lee, Y.-K., Choi, E. Y., & Shin, D.-M. (2020). Hydrogen-rich water reduces inflammatory responses and prevents apoptosis of peripheral blood cells in healthy adults: A randomized, double-blind, controlled trial. Scientific Reports 10, Article 12130.
13. Disease Severity and Dyspnea in COVID-19 Patients, Hydrogen Inhalation
14. Therapeutic Effects on Chronic Graft-Versus-Host-Disease (cGVHD) Patients, Hydrogen Water
Qian, L., Liu, M., Shen, J., Cen, J., & Zhao, D. (2020). Hydrogen in patients with corticosteroid-refractory/dependent chronic graft-versus-host-disease: a single-arm, multicenter, open-label, phase 2 trial. Frontiers in Immunology.
15. Allergic Rhinitis Treatment, Hydrogen-Rich Saline
Jin, L., Fan, K., Zhang, X., Zhao, Y., Ge, Q., Wang, Y., & Yu, S. (2020). [Changes of nasal nitric oxide in the treatment of allergic rhinitis with hydrogen-rich saline lavage of nasal cavity]. Lin Chung Er Bi Yan Hou Tou Jing Wai Ke Za Zhi, 34(3): 244–247.
16. Corneal Endothelial Damage Prevention During Phacoemulsification, H2 Dissolved in an Irrigation Solution
Igarashi, T., Ohsawa, I., Kobayashi, M., Umemoto, Y., Arima, T., Suzuki, H., Igarashi, T., Otsuka, T., & Takahashi, H. (2019). Effects of hydrogen in prevention of corneal endothelial damage during phacoemulsification: A prospective randomized clinical trial. American Journal of Ophthalmology, 207, 10–17.
17. Prevention of Dry Eye Disease, Hydrogen H2-Producing Milk
Kawashima, M., Tsuno, S., Matsumoto, M., & Tsubota, K. (2019). Hydrogen-producing milk to prevent reduction in tear stability in persons using visual display terminals. The Ocular Surface,17(4): 714–721.
18. Immune Function of Middle-Aged Participants, Hydrogen Inhalation
Chen, J.-B., Kong, X.-F., & Mu, F. (2021). High-flow hydrogen inhalation might suppresses the immune function of middle-aged participants: A self-controlled study. Medical Gas Research, 11(1), 12–17.
19. Oxidative Stress in Post-Cardiac Arrest Syndrome, Hydrogen Gas Inhalation
Tamura, T., Suzuki, M., Hayashida, K., Kobayashi, Y., Yoshizawa, J., Shibusawa, T., Sano, M., Hori, S., & Sasaki, J. (2020). Hydrogen gas inhalation alleviates oxidative stress in patients with post-cardiac arrest syndrome. Journal of Clinical Biochemistry and Nutrition, 67(2): 214–221.
20. Heart Surgery Under Cardiopulmonary Bypass, Hydrogen Inhalation
21. Increased Sympathetic Cardiac Activity in Healthy Females, Hydrogen Water
22. Malignant Neuropathic Pain, Hydrogen Water
23. Dry Eye Disease, H2-Generating Supplement
24. Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease, Hydrogen Inhalation
25. Effects on biomarkers of aging in older adults, OUR HYDROGEN TABLETS
Zanini, D., Todorovic, N., Korovljev, D., Stajer, V., Ostojic, J., Purac, J., Kojic, D., Vukasinovic, E., Djordjievski, S., Sopic, M., Guzonjic, A., Ninic, A., Erceg, S., Ostojic, S.M. (2021). The effects of 6-month hydrogen-rich water intake on molecular and phenotypic biomarkers of aging in older adults aged 70 years and over: A randomized controlled pilot trial. Experimental Gerontology, 155
26. Stool Consistency and Gut Microbiota, Hydrogen-Dissolved Alkaline Electrolyzed Water
27. Covid-19, OUR HYDROGEN TABLETS
28. Post Acute Covid-19 Patients Suffering CFS, Hydrogen Inhalation
29. Hydrogen Intake Relieves Alcohol Consumption and Hangover Symptoms in Healthy Adults: a Randomized and Placebo-Controlled Crossover Study
30. A double-blinded, randomized controlled clinical trial of hydrogen inhalation therapy for idiopathic sudden sensorineural hearing loss
31. The Effects of Medium-Term Intake of Hydrogen-Rich Water on Sperm Quality
32. Effect of hydrogen/oxygen therapy for ordinary COVID-19 patients
33. The Effect of Electrolyzed Hydrogen-Rich Alkaline Reduced Water on Patients with Chronic Constipation
34. Alpha Hope, via Molecular Hydrogen and Pyrroloquinoline Quinone, Dose-Dependently Increases Nrf2 and PGC-1α Levels in C2C12 Myoblasts
35. Molecular hydrogen exposure improves functional state of red blood cells in the early postoperative period
37. Effects of hydrogen water and psychological treatment in a sample of women with panic disorder: a randomized and controlled clinical trial
Darinka Korovljev, Nikola Todorovic, Marijana Ranisavljev, Bogdan Andjelic, Nebojsa Kladar, Valdemar Stajer, Sergej M. Ostojic, Fernández-Serrano AB, Moya-Faz FJ, Giner Alegría CA, Fernández Rodríguez JC, Soriano Guilabert JF, Del Toro Mellado M. Effects of hydrogen water and psychological treatment in a sample of women with panic disorder: a randomized and controlled clinical trial. Health Psychol Res. 2022 May 30;10(3):35468. doi: 10.52965/001c.35468. PMID: 35774917; PMCID: PMC9239392.
38. The effect of hydrogen-rich water consumption on premenstrual symptoms and quality of life
39. The Effect of 14-Day Consumption of Hydrogen-Rich Water Alleviates Fatigue but Does Not Ameliorate Dyspnea in Long-COVID Patients
40. Effects of hydrogen-rich water on blood uric acid in patients with hyperuricemia: A randomized placebo-controlled trial
41. Combination of Hydrogen Inhalation and Hypothermic Temperature Control After Out-of-Hospital Cardiac Arrest
42. The impact of hydrogen inhalation therapy on blood reactive oxygen species levels: A randomized controlled study
43. Effectiveness and safety of hydrogen inhalation therapy as an additional treatment for hypertension in real-world practice: a retrospective, observational study in China
44. A novel intervention of molecular hydrogen on the unbalance of the gut microbiome in opioid addiction: Experimental and human studies
Electrically Reduced Water and Magnesium-Based Ingestible Interventions for “-ORP”
“Ionized water” or “electrolyzed water” uses electrolysis and dissolves H2 gas in varying amounts into the water. This is what gives it the negative “ORP.” Likewise, elemental magnesium-based products designed for a “negative ORP” were creating said “negative ORP” by generating molecular hydrogen. That said, exact dosages and concentrations are not known from these studies, so we have segmented them off from the “molecular hydrogen research.”
1. “Ionized Water” Diarrhea
Tashiro, H., Hokudo, T., Ono, H., Fujiyama, Y., & Baba, T. (2000). Clinical evaluation of alkaline ionized water for abdominal complaints: Placebo controlled double blind tests. Digestion & Absorption.
2. “Electrolyzed Reduced Water” in Dialysis
Huang, K.-C., Yang, C.-C., Lee, K.-T., & Chien, C.-T. (2003). Reduced hemodialysis-induced oxidative stress in end-stage renal disease patients by electrolyzed reduced water. Kidney International, 64(2), 704–14.
3. “Anti-Oxidant Water”
Hiraoka, A., Sasaki, S., Yamada, T., Shinohara, A., & Chiba, M. (2006). Effects of drinking a water product with anti-oxidant activities in vitro on the blood levels of biomarker substances for the oxidative stress. Journal of Health Science, 52(6): 817–820.
Cites hydrogen gas as the antioxidant, no indication of concentration. Cites higher in vitro abilities than observed in vivo without understanding in vitro data using the same concentrations, as in vivo will not be close to relatable/transferable.
4. “Electrolyzed Reduced Water” in Dialysis End-Stage Renal Patients
Huang, K.-C., Yang, C.-C., Hsu, S.-P., Lee, K.-T., Liu, H.-W., Morisawa, S., Otsubo, K., & Chien, C.-T. (2006). Electrolyzed-reduced water reduced hemodialysis-induced erythrocyte impairment in end-stage renal disease patients. Kidney International, 70(2), 391–8.
5. Negative Ion Eater-Performance
Bittner, A. C., Bittner, R. C. L., Lile, Jr., K., & Sakuragi, Y. (2007). Intra-individual ergonomics (I2E): Performance effects of ultra-negative-ion water.
6. Alkaline Reduced Water, Diabetes
7. Electrolyzed Water, Dialysis
Nakayama, M., Kabayama, S., Nakano, H., Zhu, W.-Z., Terawaki, H., Nakayama, K., Katoh, K., Satoh, T., & Ito, S. (2009) Biological effects of electrolyzed water in hemodialysis. Nephron Clinical Practice, 112(1), c9–15.
8. Electrolyzed Water, End Stage Renal Patients Dialysis
9. Negative ORP Blend, Magnesium-Based Sports Performance
10. “Hydrogen Containing” Ionized Water
Tanaka, Y., Saihara, Y., Izumotani, K., & Nakamur, H. (2018). Daily ingestion of alkaline electrolyzed water containing hydrogen influences human health, including gastrointestinal symptoms. Medical Gas Research, 8(4), 160–166.
11. Electrolyzed Water, Type 2 Diabetes
Rias, Y. A., Kurniawan, A. L., Chang, C. W., Gordon, C. J., & Tsai, H. T. (2020). Synergistic effects of regular walking and alkaline electrolyzed water on decreasing inflammation and oxidative stress, and increasing quality of life in individuals with type 2 diabetes: A community based randomized controlled trial. Antioxidants, 9(10), 946.
12. Other Studies Listed at http://www.molecularhydrogeninstitute.com/human-studies
There are a further four trials listed at http://www.molecularhydrogeninstitute.com/human-studies near the bottom with no links to journals and that I have never been able to find. There is a strong possibility they were never written or published in English.
1. Fujiyama, Y. & Kitahora, T. (2004). Alkaline electrolytic water (alkali ions water) for drinking water in medicine. Mizu no Tokusei to Atarashii Riyo Gijutsu, Enu-Ti-Esu, Tokyo, 348–457.
2. Lee, K.J., et al., (2004). Effect of electrolyzed-reduced water: In vivo and in vitro examination and clinical trials, in the 3rd Asia Pacific conference on evidence-based medicine. Hong Kong.
3. Lu, K. C., et al. (2006). Electrolyzed reduced water attenuates hemodialysis-induced mononuclear cells apoptosis in end-stage renal disease patients. Nephrology, Dialysis, Transplantation, 21, 200–201.
4. Yeung, L. K., et al. (2006). Effect of electrolyzed reduced water hemodialysis on peripheral lymphocyte intracellular cytokine expression. Nephrology, Dialysis, Transplantation, 21, 204–204.
Magnesium Implants
Researchers in the field of biodegradable magnesium implants are certainly aware that the degradation of the magnesium produces molecular hydrogen. They even use hydrogen gas creation to map the degradation of the implants.[i] However, they seem unaware of any potential therapeutic benefits of said molecular hydrogen, and as such, none of these studies mention anything relevant in order to ascertain dosages and benefits of the hydrogen gas, such as mass of magnesium needed to extrapolate hydrogen creation or rate of reaction. These studies should be tracked, nonetheless, in the event they may be included into the molecular hydrogen therapy story in the future.
[i] Zhao, D., Wu, J., Chou, D.-T., Hoagland, W., Benson, D., Dong, Z., Kumta, P. N., & Heineman, W. R. (2020). Visual hydrogen mapping sensor for noninvasive monitoring of bioresorbable magnesium implants in vivo. JOM, 72, 1851–1858.
1. Biodegradation Mechanism of Mg Alloy
Lee, J.-W., Han, H.-S., Han, K.-J., Park, J., Jeon, H., Ok, M.-R., Seok, H.-K., Ahn, J.-P., Lee, K. E., Lee, D.-H., Yang, S.-J., Cho, S.-Y., Cha, P.-R., Kwon, H., Nam, T.-H., Han, J. H. L., Rho, H.-J., Lee, K.-S., Kim, Y.-C., & Mantovani, D. (2016). Long-term clinical study and multiscale analysis of in vivo biodegradation mechanism of Mg alloy. Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences of the United State of America, 113(3), 716–21.
2. Magnesium-Based Screws in Hallux Valgus Surgery
Plaass, C., Ettinger, S., Sonnow, L., Koenneker, S., Noll, Y., Weizbauer, A., Reifenrath, J., Claassen, L., Daniilidis, K., Stukenborg-Colsman, C., & Windhagen, H. (2016). Early results using a biodegradable magnesium screw for modified chevron osteotomies. Journal of Orthopaedic Research, 34(12), 2207–2214.
3. Magnesium Implants for Fixation of Distal Metatarsal Osteotomies
Plaass, C., von Falck, C., Ettinger, S., Sonnow, L., Calderone, F., Weizbauer, A., Reifenrath, J., Claassen, L., Waizy, H., Daniilidis, K., Stukenborg-Colsman, C., & Windhagen, H. Bioabsorbable magnesium versus standard titanium compression screws for fixation of distal metatarsal osteotomies — 3 year results of a randomized clinical trial. Journal of Orthopaedic Science, 23(2), 321–327.
4. Biodegradable Magnesium Screw in Vascularized Bone Graft Implantation
Zhao, D., Huang, S., Lu, F., Wang, B., Yang, L., Qin, L., Yang, K., Li, Y., Li, W., Wang, W., Tian, S., Zhang, X., Gao, W., Wang, Z., Zhang, Y., Xie, X., Wang, J., & Li, J. (2016). Vascularized bone grafting fixed by biodegradable magnesium screw for treating osteonecrosis of the femoral head. Biomaterials, 81, 84–92.
5. Biodegradable Magnesium Screws for Displaced Femoral Neck Fracture in Young Adults
Yu, X., Zhao, D., Huang, S., Wang, B., Zhang, X., Wang, W., & Wei, X. (2015). Biodegradable magnesium screws and vascularized iliac grafting for displaced femoral neck fracture in young adults. BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders, 16, 329.
6.Bone Response to Magnesium (Mg) Ion-Incorporated Titanium (Ti) Implants and Healing
Hieu, P. D., Baek, D. H., Park, D. S., Park, J.-T., & Hong, K. S. (2013). Evaluation of stability changes in magnesium-incorporated titanium implants in the early healing period. The Journal of Craniofacial Surgery, 24(5), 1552–7.
7. Biodegradable Magnesium-Based Screw in Hallux Valgus Surgery
Windhagen, H., Radtke, K., Weizbauer, A., Diekmann, J., Noll, Y., Kreimeyer, U., Schavan, R., Stukenborg-Colsman, C., & Waizy, H. (2013). Biodegradable magnesium-based screw clinically equivalent to titanium screw in hallux valgus surgery: Short term results of the first prospective, randomized, controlled clinical pilot study. Biomedical Engineering Online, 12, 62.
8. Magnesium-Enriched Hydroxyapatite and Angiogenesis-Osteogenesis Interplay
Canullo, L., Heinemann, F., Gedrange, T., Biffar, R., & Kunert-Keil, C. (2013). Histological evaluation at different times after augmentation of extraction sites grafted with a magnesium-enriched hydroxyapatite: Double-blinded randomized controlled trial. Clinical Oral Implants Research, 24(4) 398–406.
9. Bioabsorbable Magnesium Coronary Stents
Erbel, R., Di Mario, C., Bartunek, J., Bonnier, J., de Bruyne, B., Eberli, F. R., Erne, P., Haude, M., Heublein, B., Horrigan, M., Ilsley, C., Böse, D., Koolen, J., Lüscher, T. F., Weissman, N., & Waksman, R. (2007). Temporary scaffolding of coronary arteries with bioabsorbable magnesium stents: A prospective, non-randomised multicentre trial. Lancet, 369(9576), 1869–1875.
A Sampling of the Many Review Articles
Metabolic and Cardiac
Alzheimer’s and Neurological Conditions
Exercise Performance
1. LeBaron, T. W., Laher, I., Kura, B., & Slezák, J. (2019). Hydrogen gas: from clinical medicine to an emerging ergogenic molecule for sports athletes.Canadian Journal of Physiology and Pharmacology, 97(9).
Radiation Injury
1. Kura, B., Bagchi, A. K., Singal, P. K., Barancik, M., LeBaron, T. W., Valachova, K., Šoltés, L., & Slezák, J. (2018). Molecular hydrogen: potential in mitigating oxidative-stress-induced radiation injury.Canadian Journal of Physiology and Pharmacology, 97(4).
Sepsis
Emergency and Critical Care
1. Sano, M., Suzuki, M., Homma, K., Hayashida, K., Tamura, T., Matsuoka, T., Katsumata, Y., Onuki, S., & Sasaki, J. (2017). Promising novel therapy with hydrogen gas for emergency and critical care medicine. Acute Medicine & Surgery.
2. Yang, M., Zhang, Z., Gao, B., Liu, L., & Hu, T. (2017). Hydrogen medicine therapy: an effective and promising novel treatment for multiple organ dysfunction (MODS) induced by infuenza and other viral infections diseases? SOJ Microbiology & Infectious Diseases, 5(2): 1–6.
General Reviews
1. Ichihara, M., Sobue, S., Ito, M., Ito, M., Hirayama, M., & Ohno, K. (2015). Beneficial biological effects and the underlying mechanisms of molecular hydrogen — Comprehensive review of 321 original articles.Medical Gas Research, 5: 12.
2. Dixon, B. J., Tang, J., & Zhang, J. H. (2013). The evolution of molecular hydrogen: A noteworthy potential therapy with clinical significance. Medical Gas Research, 3(1): 10.
3. Nicolson, G. L., Ferreira de Mattos, G., Settineri, R., Costa, C., Ellithorpe, R., Rosenblatt, S., La Valle, J., Jimenez, A., & Ohta, S. (2016). Clinical effects of hydrogen administration: From animal and human diseases to exercise medicine.International Journal of Clinical Medicine, 7(1).
4. Li, H.-M., Shen, L., Ge, J.-W., & Zhang, R.-F. (2018). The transfer of hydrogen from inert gas to therapeutic gas.Medical Gas Research, 7(4): 265–272
For basic research in rodents and cell cultures, please visit:
Antioxidant capacity:
1. Can molecular hydrogen supplementation reduce exercise-induced oxidative stress in healthy adults?
Cholesterol effects:
2.The Effects of Hydrogen-Rich Water on Blood Lipid Profiles in Clinical Populations
Exercise Performance:
3. Effects of molecular hydrogen supplementation on fatigue and aerobic capacity in healthy adults
Cancer
4. A Systematic Review of Molecular Hydrogen Therapy in Cancer Management
5. Anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activity of high concentrations of hydrogen in the lung diseases: a systematic review and meta-analysis
6. The Effects of Hydrogen-Rich Water on Blood Lipid Profiles in Metabolic Disorders Clinical Trials: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis
7. Dihydrogen and Hepatic Function: Systematic Review and Meta-analysis