Hydrogen therapy is the use of molecular hydrogen (H2) for therapeutic purposes. H2 has therapeutic benefits due to its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects, [1] as well as due to its role as an inducer of gene expression. [2]
H2 is not cytotoxic or explosive below 4% concentration. [3] H2 can rapidly cross cell membranes, including mitochondrial and nuclear membranes, as well as the blood–brain barrier. [2]
H2 directly neutralizes hydroxyl radicals (•HO) and directly scavenges peroxynitrite (ONOO−). [3] 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. [3]
H2 indirectly induces expression of antioxidant enzymes by activation of the Nrf2 transcription factor. [2]
In a rat model of ischemia and reperfusion, inhalation of H2-gas markedly suppressed brain injury. [4]
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. [2] Lipid and glucose metabolism was significantly improved in patients with type 2 diabetes administered hydrogen-rich saline. [3]
Patients with rheumatoid arthritis given H2-water for four weeks showed significant improvement of symptoms. [2]
Patients with asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) administered 2.4% H2-containing steam showed significant reduced inflammation in the airways. [3]
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. [5]
Clinical trials have shown the benefit of hydrogen therapy for traumatic brain injury, mild cognitive impairment, and symptom relief as well as neuronal improvement in patients with Alzheimer's disease. [6]
Hydrogen-rich water has demonstrated improvements in patients with liver disease, [7] and has been shown to improve lipid and glucose metabolism in patients with type 2 diabetes. [8]