Does Hydrogen Water Live Up to the Hype? - The New York Times

The Nugget

  • Hydrogen-infused water's health benefits are questionable due to limited scientific evidence, and it may not be worth the high price tag.

Key quotes

  • "For almost every study that’s shown a benefit, there’s another study that questions the benefit." - Dr. Mitchell Rosner
  • "More studies are needed to see if drinking hydrogen-infused water can reduce inflammation, aging or disease." - Tamara Hew-Butler
  • "If you have $100 and want to improve your health, you’re probably better off buying $100 of fresh fruits and vegetables than two cases of hydrogen water." - Dr. Rosner

Key insights

What is Hydrogen Water?

  • Hydrogen water is made by adding extra hydrogen molecules (H2) to water, with claims of benefits like reduced pain, improved gut health, and enhanced mood.
  • The hydrogen molecules present in hydrogen water are believed to act as antioxidants that can enter the body's cells and provide health benefits.

Scientific Evidence and Safety Concerns

  • Research supporting the health claims of hydrogen-infused water is limited and often contradictory, with few studies conducted on humans.
  • While hydrogen-infused water is generally considered safe by the FDA, the actual percentage of hydrogen in these products is not always disclosed on labels.
  • Despite the lack of serious health risks associated with hydrogen water, its high cost may not be justified by the limited proven benefits.

Make it stick

  • 💧 Hydrogen-infused water: questionable benefits for a high cost.
  • 💡 Limited evidence, high price - think twice before investing in hydrogen water.
  • 🤔 If you're looking to improve health, fresh fruits and vegetables might be a better investment than hydrogen water.
  • 🧪 Anticipate more studies before deciding if hydrogen-infused water is worth incorporating into your routine.
This summary contains AI-generated information and may have important inaccuracies or omissions.