Hydrogen therapy is the use of molecular hydrogen (H2) for therapeutic purposes. H2 has therapeutic benefits due to its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects, as well as due to its role as an inducer of gene expression,[1] H2 is not cytotoxic or explosive below 4% concentration.[2] H2 can rapidly cross cell membranes, including mitochondrial and nuclear membranes, as well as the blood–brain barrier.[1]

H2 directly neutralizes hydroxyl radicals (HO) and directly scavenges peroxynitrite (ONOO).[2] H2 accumulates more in the lipid phase of cells and tissues than in the aqueous phase, where it can suppress lipid peroxidation of polyunsaturated fats.[2]

H2 indirectly induces expression of antioxidant enzymes by activation of the Nrf2 transcription factor.[1]

In a rat model of ischemia and reperfusion, inhalation of H2-gas markedly suppressed brain injury.[3]

Clinical trials in human patients

In patients with metabolic syndrome, H2 was shown to protect against low-density lipoprotein (LDL) oxidation, stimulated cholesterol efflux from macrophage foam cells, and protected endothelial cells from apoptosis.[1] Lipid and glucose metabolism was significantly improved in patients with type 2 diabetes administered hydrogen-rich saline.[2]

Patients with rheumatoid arthritis given H2-water for four weeks showed significant improvement of symptoms.[1]

Patients with asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) administered 2.4% H2-containing steam showed significant reduced inflammation in the airways.[2]

A randomized clinical trial in which healthy adults drank H2-rich water for four weeks reduction of DNA damage, and reduced markers of inflammation, but only in those over 30 years of age.[4]

References

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