Hydrogen Supplement Extends Lifespan and Improves Health in Fruit Flies
- Authors
- Vladimir I. Klichko, Vladimir L. Safonov, Marina Yu. Safonov, Svetlana N. Radyuk
- Journal
- Heliyon
- Year
- 2019
- DOI
- 10.1016/j.heliyon.2019.e01679
- Study Type
- Fruit Fly
- Outcome
- Positive
- Peer Reviewed
- Yes
- Country
- United States
- Health Condition
- Aging
- Body System
- Digestive
TL;DR
Feeding fruit flies a special diet that releases hydrogen gas extended their lifespan and improved their health and mobility, especially in those with certain genetic mutations affecting their antioxidant systems.
Key Finding
Hydrogen-producing supplementation extended lifespan in fruit flies and significantly improved survival and physical function in flies with compromised antioxidant defenses.
Summary
Researchers gave fruit flies a food supplement containing magnesium that produces hydrogen gas when mixed with stomach acid. Flies that received this supplement lived longer than control flies, and those with genetic mutations affecting their antioxidant defenses (molecules that protect cells from damage) showed particular benefits. The hydrogen treatment also helped preserve the flies' intestinal function and physical activity as they aged.
Practical Takeaway
This early-stage study in fruit flies suggests hydrogen may support cellular protection against oxidative stress, but results in insects do not directly translate to humans. Much more research, including human trials, would be needed to determine whether hydrogen water or hydrogen-producing supplements offer similar benefits for people.
Abstract (excerpt)
Recently, molecular hydrogen (H 2 )has become known as a new class of antioxidants and redox-modulating interventions. Effects of H 2 have been documented for many acute and chronic pathological conditions. The present study was aimed at determining the effect of hydrogen on the physiology…