As someone who’s spent years researching and experimenting with various types of enhanced water, I’ve seen firsthand how hydrogen water and alkaline water have captured the attention of health enthusiasts, athletes, and medical professionals alike. When I first heard about these products, I was skeptical.
After all, water is water, right?
But as I dug deeper into the science behind them, I realized there’s much more to the story.
In this comprehensive guide, I’ll break down the key differences between hydrogen water and alkaline water, explore their potential benefits, and help you decide which might be right for you.
Understanding the Basics
Hydrogen Water
Hydrogen water is regular water that’s been infused with extra molecular hydrogen (H2). This process doesn’t change the pH of the water, which stays neutral at around 7.
The added hydrogen molecules are what give this water it’s potential health benefits.
Alkaline Water
Alkaline water has a higher pH level, typically between 8 and 9.5. This is achieved through a process called electrolysis or by adding alkaline minerals.
The higher pH is the key factor that proponents claim provides health benefits.
The Science Behind Hydrogen Water
Molecular hydrogen is the smallest molecule in existence, which gives it a unique advantage. It can easily cross cell membranes and the blood-brain barrier, potentially offering antioxidant protection at the cellular level.
A 2007 study published in Nature Medicine sparked interest in hydrogen water when it demonstrated potential therapeutic effects on brain injury in rats. Since then, numerous studies have explored it’s impact on various conditions, from metabolic disorders to neurodegenerative diseases.
One particularly interesting study from 2012, published in Medical Gas Research, found that hydrogen-rich water improved lipid and glucose metabolism in patients with type 2 diabetes or impaired glucose tolerance. This suggests that hydrogen water might have a role to play in managing metabolic health.
Potential Benefits of Hydrogen Water
- Antioxidant Effects: Molecular hydrogen acts as a selective antioxidant, targeting harmful free radicals while leaving useful ones intact.
This could help reduce oxidative stress in the body, which is linked to various chronic diseases and aging processes.
- Neuroprotective Properties: Some studies suggest that hydrogen water might help protect brain cells from damage and improve cognitive function.
This has led to research into it’s potential for conditions like Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s disease.
- Metabolic Health: The aforementioned study on diabetes patients indicates that hydrogen water might help regulate blood sugar and improve insulin sensitivity.
- Anti-Inflammatory Effects: Chronic inflammation is linked to numerous health issues.
Some research suggests that hydrogen water might help reduce inflammation in the body.
- Exercise Recovery: Athletes and fitness enthusiasts have shown interest in hydrogen water for it’s potential to reduce muscle fatigue and speed up recovery after intense workouts.
The Alkaline Water Argument
Alkaline water proponents argue that it can help neutralize acid in the body, potentially reducing the risk of various health issues. This theory is based on the alkaline diet concept, which suggests that consuming alkaline foods and drinks can help maintain optimal health.
While the idea sounds promising, the scientific evidence supporting alkaline water’s benefits is less robust compared to hydrogen water. Our bodies are incredibly effective at regulating pH levels, and it’s unclear whether drinking alkaline water can significantly impact this balance.
However, some studies have shown potential benefits. A 2016 study in the Korean Journal of Physical Education found that alkaline water consumption improved hydration status in male college students after exercise-induced dehydration.
This suggests that alkaline water might have some advantages for athletes or those engaged in intense physical activity.
Potential Benefits of Alkaline Water
- Improved Hydration: Some studies suggest that alkaline water might be more hydrating than regular water, especially after intense exercise.
- Acid Reflux Relief: A study published in the Annals of Otology, Rhinology & – Laryngology found that alkaline water with a pH of 8.8 might help deactivate pepsin, an enzyme involved in acid reflux.
- Bone Health: While evidence is limited, some researchers hypothesize that alkaline water might help improve bone density by reducing the body’s need to leach calcium from bones to neutralize acidity.
- Skin Health: Anecdotal reports suggest that alkaline water might improve skin hydration and reduce signs of aging, though scientific evidence is lacking.
Production Methods and Stability
Hydrogen Water Production
Hydrogen water can be created through several methods:
- Electrolysis: This process uses an electric current to split water molecules into hydrogen and oxygen.
The hydrogen is then infused back into the water.
- Dissolving H2 Gas: Hydrogen gas is bubbled through water under high pressure.
- Magnesium Reaction: Some products use a reaction between water and magnesium to produce hydrogen.
The challenge with hydrogen water is that the molecular hydrogen tends to dissipate over time, especially when exposed to air. This means that the potential benefits might decrease if the water isn’t consumed promptly.
Alkaline Water Production
Alkaline water is typically produced through:
- Electrolysis: This process separates water into acidic and alkaline components.
- Adding Alkaline Minerals: Minerals like calcium, potassium, and magnesium are added to increase the water’s pH.
- Natural Sources: Some spring waters are naturally alkaline because of the minerals they contain.
Alkaline water’s pH level stays relatively stable, making it easier to store and transport. This stability could be seen as an advantage for alkaline water, especially for those who prefer to buy in bulk or don’t consume their water immediately.
Practical Considerations
If you’re considering incorporating hydrogen water or alkaline water into your routine, there are several practical aspects to keep in mind:
Cost
Both types of water tend to be more expensive than regular filtered water. Hydrogen water, in particular, often needs specialized equipment or tablets to produce at home.
This can make it a more costly option in the long run.
For alkaline water, while there are expensive machines available, you can also find more affordable options like alkaline water filters or even DIY methods using lemon or baking soda.
Taste
Some people report that hydrogen water has a lighter, more refreshing taste. This is likely because of the smaller water molecule clusters that some believe are formed during the hydrogen infusion process.
Alkaline water might have a slightly mineral taste depending on it’s composition. Some people enjoy this taste, while others find it less palatable than regular water.
Accessibility
Alkaline water is more widely available in stores, with many bottled water brands now offering alkaline options. You can also find alkaline water filters for home use relatively easily.
Hydrogen water, on the other hand, often needs to be prepared at home or purchased from specialized suppliers. While there are some bottled hydrogen water options available, they’re not as common as alkaline water.
Storage
As mentioned earlier, hydrogen water’s benefits may decrease over time as the hydrogen dissipates. It’s best consumed fresh, which can be inconvenient if you’re not able to prepare it regularly.
Alkaline water is more stable and can be stored like regular water. This makes it a more convenient option for those who prefer to buy in bulk or don’t want to worry about consuming their water immediately.
Potential Risks and Side Effects
While both hydrogen water and alkaline water are generally considered safe for most people, there are some potential risks and side effects to be aware of:
Hydrogen Water
- Lack of Long-Term Studies: While short-term studies have shown promising results, there’s a lack of long-term research on the effects of regularly consuming hydrogen water.
- Interaction with Medications: As with any supplement, it’s important to talk to a healthcare provider if you’re taking medications, as hydrogen water could potentially interact with certain drugs.
- Quality Control: The effectiveness of hydrogen water depends on the concentration of dissolved hydrogen.
Poor quality products might not contain enough hydrogen to provide any benefits.
Alkaline Water
- Disruption of Stomach Acid: Regularly drinking highly alkaline water could potentially interfere with the stomach’s natural acidity, which is important for digestion and killing harmful bacteria.
- Mineral Imbalance: Overconsumption of alkaline water could lead to an imbalance in the body’s minerals, particularly for people with kidney issues.
- Skin Irritation: Some people report skin irritation when using alkaline water for bathing or washing their face.
- False Sense of Security: Relying solely on alkaline water for health benefits might lead some people to neglect other important aspects of a healthy lifestyle.
Environmental Considerations
As we consider the potential health benefits of hydrogen and alkaline water, it’s also important to think about their environmental impact:
Hydrogen Water
- Energy Use: Producing hydrogen water through electrolysis needs electricity, which could have a significant carbon footprint depending on the energy source.
- Packaging: If purchasing bottled hydrogen water, consider the environmental impact of plastic bottle production and disposal.
- Transportation: Shipping specialized hydrogen water products can contribute to carbon emissions.
Alkaline Water
- Water Waste: Some alkaline water machines produce wastewater during the filtration process.
- Mineral Extraction: The minerals used to create alkaline water need to be mined, which can have environmental consequences.
- Plastic Waste: Like hydrogen water, bottled alkaline water contributes to plastic waste if not properly recycled.
For both types of water, using a home system and reusable bottles can help reduce environmental impact.
Making an Informed Choice
So, which should you choose? The answer isn’t straightforward and depends on your personal health goals, preferences, and budget.
Here are some key takeaways to help you decide:
- Consider Your Health Goals: If you’re primarily interested in antioxidant benefits, hydrogen water might be the better choice.
If you’re an athlete looking for potential hydration benefits, alkaline water could be worth exploring.
- Evaluate the Evidence: While both types of water show promise, the scientific evidence is stronger for hydrogen water at this point.
However, more research is needed for both.
- Think About Practicality: Consider how easily you can incorporate either type of water into your daily routine.
Factor in cost, storage, and preparation time.
- Start Slowly: If you decide to try either type of water, start with small amounts and see how your body responds.
- Maintain Perspective: Remember that while both types of water show promise, they shouldn’t be seen as secret cures.
A balanced diet and overall healthy lifestyle are still crucial.
- Consult a Professional: If you have any specific health concerns or are taking medications, it’s always best to talk to a healthcare professional before making significant changes to your hydration habits.
- Consider the Environment: Think about the environmental impact of your choice and consider ways to minimize it, such as using home systems and reusable bottles.
People Also Asked
What is the difference between hydrogen water and regular water?
Hydrogen water is regular water that has been infused with extra molecular hydrogen. This process doesn’t change the pH of the water but may provide antioxidant benefits.
How is alkaline water different from regular water?
Alkaline water has a higher pH level than regular tap water, typically between 8 and 9.5. It can be naturally alkaline because of mineral content or made alkaline through an ionization process.
How long does hydrogen water stay effective?
The molecular hydrogen in hydrogen water can dissipate over time, especially when exposed to air. It’s generally recommended to consume hydrogen water within a few hours of opening the container or producing it.
Are there any side effects to drinking hydrogen or alkaline water?
Both hydrogen and alkaline water are generally considered safe for most people. However, people with kidney issues should consult a doctor before regularly consuming alkaline water because of it’s mineral content.
How much do hydrogen and alkaline water cost compared to regular water?
Hydrogen and alkaline water are typically more expensive than regular bottled water. Prices can vary widely depending on the brand and method of production.
Does the FDA regulate hydrogen and alkaline water?
The FDA regulates bottled water as a food product. However, specific health claims about hydrogen or alkaline water must be supported by scientific evidence.
Can I make hydrogen or alkaline water at home?
Yes, there are home water ionizers and hydrogen water generators available. However, these devices can be expensive and may need regular maintenance.
Key Takeaways
- Hydrogen water and alkaline water are two different types of enhanced water, each with it’s own potential benefits.
- Hydrogen water is infused with extra molecular hydrogen and may offer antioxidant benefits.
- Alkaline water has a higher pH level and is claimed to help balance the body’s acidity.
- The scientific evidence is currently stronger for hydrogen water, but more research is needed for both types.
- Practical considerations like cost, taste, accessibility, and storage should factor into your decision.