Health Hack | Hydrogen Water Science – How Is It Made

Is Hydrogen Naturally Occurring in The Human Body

Yes, hydrogen is naturally occurring in the human body. It is produced in small amounts by gut bacteria. These occurs during the digestion process of certain foods, mostly fibers and carbohydrates.  However, the amount of hydrogen naturally produced in the human body is relatively small. The exact amount varies depending on diet and an individual’s gut flora.  But it is typically in the range of a few milliliters per day.

The Purpose of Hydrogen Produced by Gut Bacteria

It is comforting to know that the body naturally prouces hydrogen. But, then again, you ask, why do our bodies produce hydrogen? It turns out to serve several important functions, such as: –

-1- Microbial Metabolism

Gut bacteria produce hydrogen gas (H₂) as a by-product of fermenting dietary fibers and carbohydrates.  This process helps in the digestion of complex carbohydrates that the human digestive enzymes cannot break down.

-2- Maintenance of Gut Health

Hydrogen gas influences the gut environment, promoting a balance of beneficial bacteria.  It helps to maintain a healthy gut microbiome, which is crucial for digestion, nutrient absorption, and immune function.

-3- Energy Production for Bacteria

Some gut bacteria, known as hydrogenotrophs, use hydrogen as an energy source.  These bacteria consume hydrogen and produce other beneficial compounds like methane or short-chain fatty acids, which are important for colon health.

-4- Antioxidant Effects

Although primarily a by-product, the small amounts of hydrogen absorbed into the bloodstream act as antioxidants.  This helps neutralize harmful free radicals and reduce oxidative stress in the body.

-5- Regulation of Intestinal Gas

Along with other gases like methane and carbon dioxide, hydrogen gas is a natural part of the gas composition in the intestines.  Hydrogen therefore helps to regulate the volume and pressure of intestinal gas, contributing to comfortable digestion.

Hydrogen Water – How Is It Made – The Science

Several methods are used to produce Hydrogen Water. Some methods are conducive for home use, others enable on-the-go consumption, while still others enable large scale production.  Regular water when infused with hydrogen gas (H₂) makes hydrogen rich water. Some common methods used include:

-1- Electrolysis

Electrolysis splits water into hydrogen and oxygen using an electric current.  An electrolyzer device is place in water (H₂O).  The electric current then passes, through the water.  The electric current separates the water molecules into hydrogen gas (H₂) and oxygen gas (O₂).  The hydrogen gas then dissolves into the water, creating hydrogen-rich water.  Most at home-use hydrogen water machines and bottles are equipped with an electrolysis functionality.

-2- Magnesium Sticks/Tablets

Hydrogen water is also be made using magnesium sticks or tablets.  When these sticks or tablets are placed in water, a chemical reaction occurs.  The magnesium reacts with water to produce hydrogen gas (H₂).  The hydrogen gas dissolves into the water, enriching it with hydrogen.  This method is simple and portable, allowing users to create hydrogen-rich water on the go.

-3- Commercial Production

Companies produce hydrogen-rich water on a larger scale using specialized equipment.  They use advanced electrolysis or chemical methods to infuse water with hydrogen gas.  The hydrogen-rich water is then packaged in cans or bottles.  These commercially produced hydrogen water products are available for purchase in stores or online.

-4- Biological Processes

Natural biological methods produce Hydrogen water.  Certain types of algae or bacteria can produce hydrogen gas during their natural processes. These are captured and infused into water.  However this method is not to produce water for human consumption.  But is more relevant for scientific research and industrial applications. 

Hydrogen Water – How It Works in The Body – The Science

Now we know they are readily available devices for hydrogen rich drinking water for human consumption. What we need to understand next is the science behind how hydrogen gas infused into the water, offers potential health benefits. Why? Because, drinking hydrogen enriched water, leads to hydrogen gas absorption into the bloodstream and cells.  Acting as a powerful antioxidant and anti-inflammatory agent. It protects cells, improves blood flow and benefits brain health, contributing to overall well-being.  So, this is what happens when you drink hydrogen water: –

-1- Hydrogen Absorption

The hydrogen gas (H₂) dissolved in the water enters your stomach and intestines.  From there, it quickly absorbs into your bloodstream as dissolved hydrogen gas (H₂).

-2- Antioxidant Action

Hydrogen acts as an antioxidant in your body.  It targets and neutralizes harmful molecules called free radicals.  Free radicals can damage cells, leading to aging and diseases.  By neutralizing free radicals, hydrogen helps protect your cells and reduce oxidative stress.

-3- Anti-Inflammatory Effects

Hydrogen has anti-inflammatory properties.  It helps reduce inflammation, which can cause various health issues.  By lowering inflammation, hydrogen helps with conditions like arthritis and other inflammatory diseases.

-4- Cell Protection

Hydrogen can enter cells easily because it’s a small molecule.  Once inside cells, it helps protect mitochondria, the powerhouses of the cell.  This protection ensures cells function better and produce energy more efficiently.

-5- Brain Benefits

Hydrogen crosses the blood-brain barrier, reaching brain cells.  It helps protect brain cells from damage and improves cognitive function.  This could potentially benefit conditions like Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s.

-6- Improved Blood Flow

Hydrogen helps to improve blood circulation.  Better blood flow means more oxygen and nutrients reach your tissues and organs.  This then enhance overall health and energy levels by eliminating many ailments related to problems caused by poor blood circulation.

Safety Considerations of Taking Hydrogen Water

Because hydrogen is naturally present in the body in small amounts. Drinking hydrogen-rich water is generally safe.  And, there is no well-defined upper limit for its intake through hydrogen-rich water. Most studies suggest that consuming hydrogen-rich water, even in higher amounts, does not pose significant risks. Because, the body exhales excess hydrogen. But, if you’re wondering, how much is too much?  Moderation is key…

-1- Daily Intake RDA: Drinking up to 1-3 liters of hydrogen-rich water per day is commonly studied and considered safe.

-2- Side Effects – There is no known toxicity levels of consuming hydrogen water.  And, no toxicity level guidelines for Hydrogen gas consumed through hydrogen rich water.

-3- Excess Intake – The body exhales excess hydrogen gas.  Exhalation typically takes place through the lungs, hence reducing the risk of accumulation.

-4- Side Effects – In rare cases, excessive hydrogen intake might cause mild gastrointestinal discomfort, such as bloating or gas.

-5- Consult Healthcare Providers – If you have existing health conditions or concerns, consult a healthcare provider before consuming hydrogen-rich water.

Hydrogen Water Research – It’s Potential Therapeutic Role

Research is ongoing into the broader health benefits of hydrogen gas produced in the gut.  Studies into its potential role in protecting against inflammation, oxidative stress, and other conditions is ongoing. Highlighted below are positive research insights on the hydrogen water science:

Recently, hydrogen molecule has been reported as a novel therapeutic approach for many diseases including cancer. there is growing body of data showing the anti-tumor, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory activity of hydrogen therapy in cancer. Also, various studies have reported the effectiveness of hydrogen therapy in cancer in preclinical setting,

Research Gate

Hydrogen therapies may help manage Alzheimer’s Disease ‘AD’, easing symptoms and slowing progression.  And, for AD inflammation, energy regulation and prevention of neuronal damage.  Hydrogen therapy’s low side effects make it a complement to AD treatment.  Further, Hydrogen therapy is promising, needs more research for better delivery methods.

Science Direct

The utilization of molecular hydrogen has shown many benefits and can be effective for a wide range of purposes, from prevention to the treatment of diseases. It has been demonstrated that molecular hydrogen exerts antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antiapoptotic effects, leading to cardioprotective benefits.

National Library of Medicine

Interesting Geeky Facts About Hydrogen

We are going to get a little geeky, to end this conversation.  Did you know, this interesting facts about Hydrogen…

• It’s a Gas. In its natural state, hydrogen exists in gas form as a diatomic gas (H₂). And each molecule is composed of two hydrogen atoms. It is colorless, odorless, tasteless, and highly flammable.

• It is present on Earth. Hydrogen is found in compounds such as water (H₂O) and other organic molecules. It is not found in large quantities since it is a free gas in the Earth’s atmosphere. And, because it’s light and escapes easily into space.

• It’s in the Universe – Hydrogen has a major role in the universe. It is a primary building block of the universe. It fuels stars, including our sun, through nuclear fusion, producing helium and releasing vast amounts of energy in the process.

Out with the geeky stuff! We’ve now discovered why everyone who wants to defy disease, is drinking hydrogen water for longevity.