What You Will Learn in this Episode
I am very excited to introduce you to the incredible health benefits of molecular hydrogen. Despite my rigorous training as a medical doctor, it was only recently that I encountered the vast potential of molecular hydrogen and its incredible effects on our body's health and well-being. With nearly 2,000 scientific studies conducted so far, the research surrounding molecular hydrogen is compelling.
Interestingly, molecular hydrogen appears to have a positive influence on over 170 distinct diseases, displaying a broad spectrum of beneficial properties. This is because molecular hydrogen targets two main root causes of chronic conditions: oxidative stress and chronic inflammation. I can't wait to share this information with you!
In this episode, you will learn:
Listen to the Podcast or read the Article below.
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The Incredible Health Benefits of Molecular Hydrogen
What is Molecular Hydrogen?
Let’s start off with the basics: As you might remember from physics class molecular hydrogen, denoted as H2, consists of two hydrogen atoms bonded together, and is the first and thus smallest element on the periodic table. This seemingly unassuming fact is important because of its small size it can penetrate into any tissue in the human body, and can even cross the blood brain barrier.
Under normal circumstances molecular hydrogen is expressed as a colorless, odorless, and tasteless gas. It triggers not only solar fusion that powers our sun, and is also used in diverse industrial processes, but most importantly, it plays a very important role in our health and well being.
In the 21st century, Japan emerged as a leader in researching the therapeutic potential of molecular hydrogen. Japanese scientists conducted pioneering studies on its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Because of its numerous health benefits, the popularity of hydrogen-infused water grew in Japan, where it is estimated that 10 percent of all bottled water is hydrogen water. It is very likely that one key factor of the longevity of the Japanese can be contributed to molecular hydrogen.
The research findings from Japan have now spawned a global interest in the health benefits of molecular hydrogen, and the Western scientific communities are starting to catch
Health Benefits of Molecular Hydrogen
The reason why molecular hydrogen is so beneficial for a host of different diseases is the fact that it targets the two main root causes of chronic illnesses: oxidative stress and inflammation.
When you have a chronic condition, you usually also have very high levels of oxidative stress. This then leads to chronic inflammation, which eventually leads to cell destruction and symptoms occur. A good example for this process is rheumatoid arthritis that is marked by very high levels of oxidative stress, inflammation in the joints, and symptoms like pain and stiffness, which indicate cell destruction.
However, the same process is happening in most chronic illnesses so that’s why interrupting the cascade of oxidative stress and chronic inflammation is so beneficial.
Molecular Hydrogen is so powerful because it targets the main root causes of chronic conditions: oxidative stress and inflammation.
Anti-oxidant Properties of Molecular Hydrogen
Before we dive into the anti-oxidant properties of molecular hydrogen, let’s take a look what “oxidation” actually means.
Simply put, oxidation is a natural bodily process wherein cells utilize oxygen to produce energy. However, this process also leads to the production of so-called reactive oxygen species (ROS), which are unstable molecules that lack an electron. In their search to stabilize themselves, they become free radicals, molecules with unpaired electrons. These free radicals then interact with other molecules, initiating a chain reaction of molecule damage as they try to regain electron stability
This process is natural to the body and plays a crucial role in our immune system's defense against bacteria and viruses, as pathogens are vulnerable to oxidation.
However, an overabundance of ROS, leads to a state of chronic oxidative stress, which can wreak havoc on DNA, proteins, and lipids within cells., and is implicated in chronic inflammation, and chronic diseases like cancer, Alzheimer’s, auto-immune diseases, aging and various others disease processes.
Causes for Oxidative Stress
Air Pollution
Pesticides
Smoking/Drinking
Raditation
Drug Side Effects
Stress
Molecular Hydrogen is a Selective Antioxidant
As you can see, reducing the amount of free radicals (ROS) is beneficial to the body when done in the right way. However, simply throwing huge amounts of antioxidants like Vitamin C, E, A at the body seems the right thing to do but can also backfire as the body always functions best when tits in a state of equilibrium. Too many anti-oxidants can lead to “reductive stress”, which also harms the body, and which you don’t want.
This is where molecular hydrogen comes into play as it acts as a “selective antioxidant”. Molecular hydrogen has the ability to target the two most aggressive free radicals in the body, which are the hydroxyl radical (•OH) and peroxynitrite radical (ONOO-).
At the same time, it preserves the beneficial oxidative reactions necessary for immune defense and cellular signaling. It transforms the hydroxyl radical and peroxynitrite into harmless substances, primarily water (H2O), reducing oxidative stress and protecting our cells from damage.
But it doesn’t stop here: Research suggests that molecular hydrogen can up regulate the activity of certain antioxidant enzymes, such as superoxide dismutase (SOD) and catalase. These enzymes are produced by the body and play a crucial role in neutralizing ROS and maintaining redox balance.
Molecular Hydrogen Reduces Inflammation
Chronic inflammation, often referred to as a "silent killer," is a persistent low-level inflammation that can silently wreak havoc within our bodies. Unlike acute inflammation, which is a necessary part of the healing process and presents with visible symptoms like redness, swelling, and pain, chronic inflammation operates stealthily, often without overt indications of its presence. It smolders beneath the surface, gradually damaging tissues and organs, and its impact becomes evident only when diseases like heart disease, cancer, or neurodegenerative disorders manifest.
Fortunately, molecular hydrogen emerges as a promising ally in the fight against chronic inflammation. Through its selective anti-inflammatory properties it has the potential to disrupt the cycle of chronic inflammation and reduce the risk of associated diseases. It achieves this by down regulating pro-inflammatory mediators and dampening the overall inflammatory response in the body.
There are several proposed ways in which molecular hydrogen may exert its anti-inflammatory effects:
- Reduction of Proinflammatory Molecules: Molecular hydrogen has been shown to reduce the production of proinflammatory cytokines, which are signaling molecules that play a key role in promoting inflammation. By decreasing the levels of these cytokines, H2 may help to dampen the inflammatory response.
- Inhibition of Inflammatory Enzymes: Molecular hydrogen might inhibit certain enzymes that contribute to the production of inflammatory mediators. For example, it may inhibit the activity of cyclooxygenase (COX) enzymes, which are involved in the production of prostaglandins—a group of molecules that play a central role in inflammation.
- Modulation of Cellular Signaling: H2 might influence various cellular signaling pathways related to inflammation. By modulating these pathways, it could affect the expression of genes involved in inflammatory responses, leading to a decrease in inflammation.
- Antioxidant Effects: As mentioned earlier, molecular hydrogen is considered a selective antioxidant. By reducing oxidative stress, H2 indirectly helps mitigate inflammation. Oxidative stress can activate inflammatory pathways, so by lowering oxidative stress levels, H2 may also contribute to reducing inflammation.
- Interaction with Nitric Oxide (NO): Molecular hydrogen has been suggested to interact with nitric oxide, another important molecule involved in regulating inflammation and blood vessel dilation. This interaction might influence blood flow and cellular responses that contribute to inflammation.
Ways to Obtain Molecular Hydrogen
Portable Hydrogen Water Generator
This is my favorite way of obtaining molecular hydrogen!
Hydrogen water generators, also known as hydrogen water machines have gained popularity as a convenient and accessible way to consume molecular hydrogen.
As you know, the chemical structure of water is H20. The water generators typically split molecular hydrogen (H2) from oxygen (O) by utilizing a process called electrolysis. The machine consists of an electrolysis chamber with electrodes and a water container. When water is poured into the container and the machine is activated, an electrical current is passed through the electrodes, causing the water molecules to undergo electrolysis, allowing the hydrogen gas to dissolve into the water.
Attention! It's important to note that the concentration of molecular hydrogen and the price of hydrogen water machines can vary significantly. There are various options available in the market, ranging from high-end counter top machines that can cost around $1,500 to more affordable portable hydrogen water generators priced at approximately $70.
However, it's essential to consider both the price and the performance of the machine. Some inexpensive options only product around 1 ppm of molecular hydrogen, which is not enough for the desired health effects. It is recommended to choose a hydrogen water machine that can generate around 4 ppm (parts per million) of molecular hydrogen in one cycle.
Additionally, it's worth mentioning that some manufacturers describe the output of their hydrogen machines in ppb (parts per billion) instead of ppm. It's important not to get confused by these different measurements. Remember that 1,000 ppb is equal to 1 ppm.
After extensive research, I am delighted to have found a reputable company that I have partnered with and can confidently recommend. They have created an exceptional portable and affordable molecular hydrogen water machine called the "Qcup Max." This remarkable device is capable of producing hydrogen-infused water with a concentration of up to 5 ppm (parts per million).
Not only does the "Qcup Max" deliver outstanding performance, but it also offers excellent value for its price, currently available at under $300.
USE THE COUPON CODE: katharina10 AT CHECKOUT FOR A 10% DISCOUNT
Speaking from personal experience, I found that investing in a portable hydrogen water generator is a cost-effective choice in the long run. The expenses of hydrogen tablets can accumulate rapidly, especially if, like me, you desire to enjoy hydrogen-infused water frequently throughout the day.
Let me show you how the molecular water generator I use looks like.
Oral Supplementation
A convenient was of consuming molecular hydrogen is through the use of tablets. This method involves simply dropping a tablet into a glass of room temperature water, allowing it to dissolve, and then consuming the solution immediately to harness the benefits..
However, it's important to note that while this method is convenient, the costs can accumulate over time. This is especially true if you want to incorporate it as a regular part of your lifestyle and enjoy the full benefits of drinking several glasses of hydrogen water daily. Personally, I did not like the taste of the dissolved water but nevertheless will use them while flying. Being exposed to cosmic radiation during a flight creates enormous amounts of free radicals and drinking molecular hydrogen water every hour does certainly help.
Molecular Hydrogen Baths
A molecular hydrogen bath involves immersing oneself in water infused with molecular hydrogen gas. It is a method of delivering molecular hydrogen to the body through the skin for potential therapeutic benefits. To prepare a special device is typically used to generate molecular hydrogen gas, which is then dissolved into the bathwater. The hydrogen gas permeates the water and can be absorbed through the skin during the bathing session.
While hydrogen baths are not as extensively studied as other forms of hydrogen administration, there is emerging evidence suggesting their potential benefits, particularly for individuals with chronic inflammatory skin conditions like psoriasis or dermatitis.
You can find a good hydrogen water device here. USE THE COUPON CODE: katharina10 AT CHECKOUT FOR A 10% DISCOUNT
Molecular Hydrogen Inhalation
In this therapy, individuals inhale molecular hydrogen gas, which is known for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. The gas helps reduce inflammation in the lungs and protect lung tissue from oxidative damage, potentially offering relief for conditions such as asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), and other respiratory disorders. Devices can be found here: USE THE COUPON CODE: katharina10 AT CHECKOUT FOR A 10% DISCOUNT
Keep on reading to learn more about the incredible health benefits of molecular hydrogen.
Mitigates Fatigue and Enhances Mitochondrial Function
Molecular hydrogen may also contribute to improved energy levels by optimizing the function of mitochondria, the powerhouses of our cells. In particular, by reducing oxidative stress, molecular hydrogen helps maintain the integrity of mitochondria, ensuring efficient energy production, and mitigating symptoms of fatigue.
Improves Cognitive Function
The benefits of molecular hydrogen extend to cognitive function as well. Research suggests that it could potentially improve symptoms of neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer's and Parkinson's. By reducing oxidative stress and inflammation in the brain, molecular hydrogen may help maintain healthy neural cells and improve mental performance.
Alleviates Pain
Molecular hydrogen could play a significant role in pain management. Studies suggest that it can help alleviate pain in several ways. By reducing inflammation, it can alleviate inflammatory pain, particularly relevant for conditions like arthritis where chronic inflammation contributes to joint pain. Moreover, molecular hydrogen has shown promise in combatting neuropathic pain, which often arises from conditions like diabetes, cancer, and physical injuries. Lastly, it enhances the production of ghrelin, a hormone that can decrease pain sensation.
Metabolic Syndrome and Weight Management
Molecular hydrogen could be a crucial tool for managing metabolic syndrome and weight. Metabolic syndrome, a cluster of conditions including high blood pressure, high blood sugar, abnormal cholesterol levels, and excess body fat around the waist, can increase your risk of heart disease, stroke, and type 2 diabetes. Research indicates that molecular hydrogen can improve several markers of metabolic syndrome and assist with weight management.
Benefits for Autoimmune Conditions
Autoimmune conditions, in which the immune system mistakenly attacks the body's own cells, represent another potential area where molecular hydrogen might confer benefits. Research has indicated that molecular hydrogen can modulate the immune system and reduce the inflammatory response, potentially alleviating the symptoms of autoimmune diseases.
Anti-Aging Properties
Oxidative stress, a key contributor to aging processes, can lead to cellular damage and accelerate the aging of our bodies. Molecular hydrogen's potent antioxidant properties enable it to neutralize harmful free radicals, reducing oxidative stress and helping to preserve the integrity of our cells. By mitigating oxidative damage, molecular hydrogen may contribute to maintaining a more youthful appearance and potentially slow down the aging process.
Skin Health and Radiance
Our skin is particularly susceptible to oxidative stress due to its exposure to environmental factors like UV radiation and pollutants. Oxidative stress can lead to skin damage, premature aging, and the development of wrinkles. Molecular hydrogen's ability to scavenge free radicals and reduce oxidative stress may support skin health and radiance. It can potentially enhance the skin's natural defense mechanisms, promote skin hydration, and contribute to a more youthful and vibrant complexion.
- Skin Conditions: Molecular hydrogen's anti-inflammatory properties can also be beneficial for managing various skin conditions. Chronic inflammation is often implicated in skin conditions such as acne, eczema, and psoriasis. By modulating the inflammatory response, molecular hydrogen may help alleviate symptoms and improve the overall condition of the skin.
- Wound Healing: It has shown promise in promoting wound healing due to its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects. By reducing oxidative stress and inflammation, it may aid in the repair and regeneration of damaged skin tissue, potentially accelerating the healing process.
Adjunct Cancer therapy
Molecular hydrogen has emerged as a promising component of adjuvant cancer therapy, offering potential benefits to patients undergoing conventional treatments. Its key attributes, including antioxidant properties and anti-inflammatory effects, can contribute significantly to the overall well-being of cancer patients. By acting as a potent antioxidant, it helps combat oxidative stress, reducing the risk of cellular damage and potentially enhancing the efficacy of traditional cancer treatments like chemotherapy and radiation therapy. Additionally, its ability to mitigate chronic inflammation, a known contributor to cancer progression, may provide a valuable avenue for managing this debilitating disease.
Cardio-protective Effects
Oxidative stress plays a significant role in the development and progression of cardiovascular diseases such as heart disease, atherosclerosis, and hypertension. Molecular hydrogen's potent antioxidant properties help combat oxidative stress by neutralizing harmful free radicals, reducing lipid peroxidation, and preserving the integrity of cardiovascular cells. These protective effects may contribute to the prevention and management of cardiovascular conditions.
Anti-Inflammatory Action: Chronic inflammation is closely linked to cardiovascular disease. Its selective anti-inflammatory properties can help modulate the inflammatory response within blood vessels and cardiac tissues, potentially reducing inflammation-associated damage and improving overall cardiovascular health.
Enhanced Athletic Performance
For athletes and fitness enthusiasts, molecular hydrogen presents an opportunity to improve performance and recovery. Research has demonstrated that it reduces lactic acid buildup during intensive exercise, enhancing endurance and reducing recovery time.
My personal Experience
When I first got my molecular hydrogen water generator, I began to experience its positive effects within just a few days. I noticed a significant boost in my energy levels, a heightened sense of mental clarity, and, perhaps most intriguingly, an improvement in my overall mood. The water produces by this generator tastes very soft and I started to drink much more than I usually do, thus improving my overall hydration.
After a few weeks I also noticed that my skin looks better and when drinking it after my work-out the recovery period seems to be less.
Much love,
Katharina
PS: Kindly share this article with your friends and family, as they can also benefit from this valuable information.
f you have any questions, please feel free to ask using the form below.
Frequently Asked Questions about Molecular Hydrogen
To date, no adverse effects of molecular hydrogen have been reported in any of the clinical trials. However, always consult your healthcare provider before starting any new supplement regimen.
The appropriate dosage of molecular hydrogen can vary depending on factors such as body weight and specific health conditions. Research suggests that a daily consumption of 1-3 mg of molecular hydrogen may provide notable health benefits. To put it into perspective, if you were to consume approximately 8.5 fluid ounces (250 ml) of water with a concentration of 4 ppm, you would obtain approximately 1 mg of molecular hydrogen. For optimal convenience, a portable water machine is recommended, as a high quality model can produce water with a concentration of 4 ppm of molecular hydrogen in a single cycle. By consuming four glasses of water per day, you would be able to obtain around 4 mg of molecular hydrogen. It's important to note that there are currently no known side effects associated with molecular hydrogen consumption. This means you have the flexibility to consume more if desired, keeping in mind your individual needs and preferences.
It is highly likely, as molecular hydrogen has shown a positive impact on more than 170 different diseases, effectively addressing the underlying causes of most chronic conditions."
While molecular hydrogen is present in some foods and our body produces small amounts, the levels are not sufficient to provide the therapeutic benefits seen in studies.
Molecular hydrogen can be seen as a complementary approach that can support your overall well-being and potentially enhance the effectiveness of your existing treatments. It is important to consult with healthcare professionals or qualified practitioners who can assess your specific health condition, provide personalized recommendations, and determine the appropriate integration of molecular hydrogen into your existing treatment plan.
The good news is that there are no known major side effects associated with molecular hydrogen therapy. It is well-tolerated by most individuals, and studies have not reported any significant adverse effects or toxicity.
Sources for this article
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- Ohta, S. "Molecular hydrogen as a preventive antioxidant." Current Pharmaceutical Design, 2011. (Link: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/21443487/)
- Chen H, et al. "Molecular hydrogen: a therapeutic antioxidant and beyond." Medical Gas Research, 2016. (Link: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27689165/)
- Ishibashi, T. "Molecular hydrogen: new antioxidant and anti-inflammatory therapy for rheumatoid arthritis and related diseases." Current Pharmaceutical Design, 2013. (Link: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/23448449/)
- Ishibashi T, et al. "Therapeutic efficacy of infused molecular hydrogen in saline on rheumatoid arthritis: a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled pilot study." International Immunopharmacology, 2014. (Link: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24445530/)
- Kawamura T, et al. "Inhaled hydrogen gas therapy for prevention of lung transplant-induced ischemia/reperfusion injury in rats." Transplantation, 2010. (Link: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/20847616/)
- "Autoimmune diseases." National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases. (Link not provided as it is a general reference available on the institute's website)
- Saitoh Y, et al. "Neutral pH hydrogen-enriched electrolyzed water achieves tumor-preferential clonal growth inhibition over normal cells and tumor invasion inhibition concurrently with intracellular oxidant repression." Oncology Research, 2008. (Link: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/18480836/)
- "Metabolic Syndrome." Mayo Clinic. (Link not provided as it is a general reference available on Mayo Clinic's website)
- Li Y, et al. "Hydrogen-rich saline improves memory function in a rat model of amyloid-beta-induced Alzheimer's disease by reduction of oxidative stress." Brain Research, 2010. (Link: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/20406658/)
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- Matsumoto A, et al. "Oral 'hydrogen water' induces neuroprotective ghrelin secretion in mice." Scientific Reports, 2013. (Link: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24282351/)
- Ishibashi T. "Therapeutic efficacy of infused molecular hydrogen in saline on rheumatoid arthritis: a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled pilot study." International Immunopharmacology, 2014. (Link: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24445530/)
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Very interesting information. Thanks for sharing!
You are very welcome, Gudrun : )
Thank you for this great information. What would the daily dosage be?
I think I just found the answer. Just ordered the device.
Hi Petra
I have answered the question in the FAQ section on this page. If your dink around 4 glasses of hydrogen water produced by the Q Cup Max, you will get around 4mg of molecular hydrogen, which is enough.of course, you can also drink more.
Best,
Katharina