
What is Hydrogen Infused Water
Hydrogen infused water, also known as hydrogen-rich water, is simply pure water that contains dissolved molecular hydrogen gas (H2). This added hydrogen gas does not alter the water’s taste, appearance, or pH significantly. However, ongoing research suggests it may offer unique health-supportive properties due to hydrogen’s antioxidant and cell-signalling potential.
Hydrogen is the lightest and smallest molecule in the universe, allowing it to rapidly diffuse through cell membranes and into parts of the body other substances may not reach. Although hydrogen gas is already produced in small amounts in the human gut during digestion, hydrogen infused water allows individuals to consume higher concentrations in a convenient and non-invasive way.
How is Hydrogen Infused Water Made?
There are a few main methods used to infuse water with hydrogen gas:
- Electrolysis: This is the most common method, using an electric current to split water molecules (H2O) into hydrogen and oxygen gases. Devices such as hydrogen water generators and water ionizers use electrolysis to enrich water with dissolved hydrogen.
- Magnesium Reaction: Magnesium tablets or cartridges can be placed in water, where they react with water molecules to produce magnesium hydroxide and hydrogen gas. This method is often used in portable hydrogen tablets and sachets.
- Pressurised Gas Infusion: Commercially produced hydrogen water can be made by bubbling pure hydrogen gas into water under pressure, then sealing it in special containers to maintain hydrogen concentration.
How is it Different from Other Waters?
- Versus Regular Water: Regular tap or bottled water contains virtually no molecular hydrogen. Hydrogen infused water contains measurable amounts of dissolved hydrogen gas.
- Versus Alkaline Water: Some electrolysis-based systems produce both alkaline and hydrogen-rich water. However, alkaline water is defined by its pH, whereas hydrogen water is defined by the presence of molecular hydrogen.
- Versus Oxygenated or Vitamin Waters: Hydrogen infused water provides no added vitamins, minerals, or calories. Its value lies in the hydrogen gas content and its potential biological effects.
Potential Health Benefits
Hydrogen infused water is being researched for its ability to support health and wellbeing in the following ways:
- Antioxidant Support: Molecular hydrogen may act as a selective antioxidant, neutralising harmful free radicals such as hydroxyl radicals, without interfering with beneficial reactive oxygen species.
- Cellular Protection: Hydrogen may help reduce oxidative stress and support mitochondrial function, which plays a role in energy production and cellular repair processes.
- Anti-inflammatory Potential: Emerging studies suggest hydrogen may help modulate inflammatory pathways and support a balanced immune response.
- Physical Performance and Recovery: Some early research has explored hydrogen water’s effects on reducing lactic acid build-up and fatigue after exercise, supporting recovery.
- Cognitive Support: Preliminary findings have looked at hydrogen’s role in supporting neurological health and cognitive function through its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.
Who Might Use Hydrogen Infused Water?
Hydrogen infused water may be beneficial for:
- Health-conscious individuals looking to support general wellbeing.
- Athletes and active individuals aiming to optimise recovery.
- Older adults seeking to maintain energy and vitality.
- Those exposed to environmental stressors or high physical stress.
Hydrogen water can be a supportive addition to a healthy lifestyle. It should not be considered a treatment for any disease or a replacement for medical care. Always seek the advice of your healthcare professional for any medical concerns.
Safety and Considerations
Hydrogen gas is considered non-toxic and has been studied for its safety in various settings. When consumed in water, it does not alter the body's pH or mineral balance significantly. As with any wellness approach, quality matters. Always choose hydrogen water systems and products from trusted sources.
Hydrogen gas naturally dissipates over time, especially when exposed to air. For best results, hydrogen water should be consumed shortly after it is produced or opened.
Hydrogen Water at AlkaWay
AlkaWay offers a selection of hydrogen water systems and products designed for daily use. These include home filtration systems that naturally infuse hydrogen during water purification, as well as portable options for those on the go.
Our systems combine high-performance filtration with the added benefit of hydrogen enrichment, helping you stay hydrated with water that supports your wellbeing.