Hydrogen Drink Boosts Exercise Performance and Brain Function
Effects of an H2-infused, Nitric Oxide-Producing Functional Beverage on Exercise and Cognitive Performance
Research hubs: Cognitive Function · Cardiovascular System · Brain & Nervous System
- Evidence type
- Uncontrolled trial (single-arm or pilot) · Human study
- Authors
- Tyler W. LeBaron, Jason Kharman, Dr. McCullough
- Journal
- Journal of Science and Medicine
- Year
- 2021
- Study Type
- Human
- Delivery
- Water, Commercial (Hydro Shot)
- Outcome
- Positive
- Peer Reviewed
- Yes
- Country
- United States
TL;DR
Drinking a special hydrogen-infused beverage improved exercise performance and brain function by boosting nitric oxide levels, which helps blood flow and muscle function.
Key Finding
A hydrogen-infused beverage that produces nitric oxide significantly improved aerobic performance, delayed muscle fatigue, and enhanced cognitive function including focus and mental processing speed.
Summary
Researchers tested a beverage containing molecular hydrogen and nitric oxide (a gas that helps blood vessels relax and improves oxygen delivery) on exercise and mental performance. The drink increased nitric oxide production and blood flow, improved aerobic fitness (oxygen use during exercise), delayed muscle fatigue during intense activity, and enhanced cognitive measures like focus and mental speed.
Practical Takeaway
This small preliminary study suggests the hydrogen-nitric oxide combination may support exercise performance and mental function, but important details like sample size and study duration were not reported. More rigorous research is needed before drawing firm conclusions about real-world benefits for consumers.
Abstract (excerpt)
Background. Exercise performance and recovery are impaired by excessive levels of oxidative stress and inflammation. However, both reactive oxygen species (ROS) and inflammation improve exercise performance including mitochondrial ATP production and force of muscle contraction. They also…