Hydrogen Gas Shows Promise as Treatment for Multiple Diseases
- Authors
- Li Ge, Ming Yang, Na-Na Yang, Xin-Xin Yin, Wen-Gang Song
- Journal
- Oncotarget
- Year
- 2017
- DOI
- 10.18632/oncotarget.21130
- Study Type
- clinical
- Peer Reviewed
- Yes
- Country
- China
- Health Condition
- Metabolic Syndrome
- Body System
- Cardiovascular
TL;DR
Scientists discovered that a special type of hydrogen gas can fight harmful molecules in your body that damage cells, and it might help prevent or treat diseases like diabetes, heart problems, and cancer. They're saying we should do more research to figure out the best ways to use it to help sick people.
Key Finding
Molecular hydrogen has demonstrated selective antioxidant properties with potential therapeutic benefits across multiple disease models including metabolic syndrome, organ injury, and cancer, though most evidence comes from animal studies rather than large human trials.
Summary
This is a review article that summarizes research on molecular hydrogen (H2), a gas that appears to have antioxidant properties—meaning it may help neutralize harmful molecules in the body. Scientists have studied H2 in various animal models and some human studies since 2007, finding potential benefits for conditions like metabolic syndrome (a group of health problems including high blood pressure and high blood sugar), organ damage, and cancer. The review discusses different ways to deliver hydrogen to the body and calls for more research into its medical uses.
Practical Takeaway
This is a review article summarizing existing research rather than a new study, so it does not provide new evidence. While the review suggests hydrogen may have promise for various health conditions, most supporting evidence comes from animal studies. Significant gaps remain in human clinical research, and more rigorous human trials are needed before hydrogen water can be recommended as a medical treatment for any specific condition.
Abstract
Since the 2007 discovery that molecular hydrogen (H2) has selective antioxidant properties, multiple studies have shown that H2 has beneficial effects in diverse animal models and human disease. This review discusses H2 biological effects and potential mechanisms of action in various diseases, including metabolic syndrome, organ injury, and cancer; describes effective H2 delivery approaches; and summarizes recent progress toward H2 applications in human medicine. We also discuss remaining questions in H2 therapy, and conclude with an appeal for a greater role for H2 in the prevention and treatment of human ailments that are currently major global health burdens. This review makes a case for supporting hydrogen medicine in human disease prevention and therapy.