Hydrogen Water Protects Hearts from Damage After Blood Flow Loss
- Authors
- Xiangzi Li, Liangtong Li, Xuanchen Liu, Jiawen Wu, Xiaoyu Sun, Zhilin Li, Yong-Jian Geng, Fulin Liu, Yujuan Zhou
- Journal
- Current Molecular Medicine
- Year
- 2019
- DOI
- 10.2174/1566524019666190321113544
- Study Type
- Rat
- Outcome
- Positive
- Peer Reviewed
- Yes
- Country
- China
- Health Condition
- Ischemia-Reperfusion Injury
- Body System
- Cardiovascular
TL;DR
Drinking hydrogen-rich water may help protect heart cells from damage after a heart attack by influencing certain cell signaling pathways and reducing cell death.
Key Finding
Hydrogen-rich water reduced heart cell death in rats experiencing ischemia-reperfusion injury by activating a specific cellular pathway (JAK2-STAT3) that protects against damage.
Summary
This study used 20 rats to test whether hydrogen-rich water could protect heart tissue from damage that occurs when blood flow is restored after being cut off (a condition called ischemia-reperfusion injury). Researchers found that rats given hydrogen-rich water had less cell death in heart tissue and changes in specific proteins that may reduce this type of damage. However, this was an animal study, so results may not directly apply to humans.
Practical Takeaway
While this rat study suggests hydrogen-rich water may have protective effects on heart tissue after blood flow is restored, it is very early evidence. Animal studies do not always translate to human benefit, and no human trials have yet tested whether hydrogen water provides cardiac protection. Anyone with heart disease should discuss any new interventions with their doctor rather than relying on animal research alone.
Abstract (excerpt)
Background: Hydrogen has been shown to exert a bioactive effect on the myocardium. This study examined the signalling pathways for hydrogen attenuating ischaemia-reperfusion injury. Methods: In total, 20 male Wistar rats were evaluated for the effects of hydrogen-rich water on ischaemia-reperfusion…