In the continuous search for effective treatments for metabolic disorders, hydrogen-rich water (HRW) has emerged as a potential therapeutic agent. A recent randomized controlled pilot trial, published in Clinics and Research in Hepatology and Gastroenterology in 2019, explores the impact of HRW on liver fat accumulation and liver enzyme profiles in patients with non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD).
Study Overview
The study, titled "Hydrogen-rich water reduces liver fat accumulation and improves liver enzyme profiles in patients with non-alcoholic fatty liver disease: a randomized controlled pilot trial," was conducted by Darinka Korovljev, Valdemar Stajer, Jelena Ostojic, Tyler W. LeBaron, and Sergej M. Ostojic. This double-blind, placebo-controlled, crossover trial aimed to analyze the effects of a 28-day HRW intake on liver fat deposition, body composition, and lab chemistry profiles in overweight patients suffering from mild-to-moderate NAFLD.
Key Findings
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Reduction in Liver Fat Accumulation:
- The study revealed that drinking 1 liter per day of hydrogen-rich water for 28 days significantly reduced liver fat accumulation. The liver fat content decreased from 284.0 ± 118.1 mM to 256.5 ± 108.3 mM after the hydrogen treatment, showing a percent change of 2.9% (95% CI from 0.5 to 5.5).
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Improved Liver Enzyme Profiles:
- HRW intake led to a 10.0% drop in serum aspartate transaminase (AST) levels, an important liver enzyme. This reduction in AST levels suggests an improvement in liver function.
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Safety and Compliance:
- All patients completed the trial without reporting any side effects. The compliance rate with the intervention was high, at 90.0% for the HRW group and 93.3% for the placebo group.
Mechanisms of Action
The study suggests that the beneficial effects of hydrogen-rich water on NAFLD are due to its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Here’s how molecular hydrogen (H2) may work:
- Antioxidant Effects: Hydrogen molecules can neutralize harmful free radicals, reducing oxidative stress, which is a significant contributor to liver damage in NAFLD.
- Anti-Inflammatory Properties: By reducing inflammation, HRW helps mitigate liver inflammation, which is crucial in preventing the progression of NAFLD to more severe liver diseases.
- Metabolic Improvements: Hydrogen has been shown to improve lipid and glucose metabolism, which are key factors in managing NAFLD.
Practical Implications
For patients with NAFLD, incorporating hydrogen-rich water into their daily regimen could offer a simple and effective way to reduce liver fat and improve liver function. While these results are preliminary, they provide a strong rationale for further clinical trials to confirm the safety and efficacy of hydrogen-rich water in treating NAFLD.
Conclusion
The study led by Korovljev et al. presents promising evidence that hydrogen-rich water can significantly reduce liver fat accumulation and improve liver enzyme profiles in patients with non-alcoholic fatty liver disease. These findings highlight the potential of HRW as a safe and effective adjuvant treatment for NAFLD, offering new hope for individuals struggling with this common liver condition.
As more research unfolds, hydrogen-rich water may become a widely recognized natural intervention for liver health. For those interested in exploring the benefits of hydrogen-rich water, it is recommended to consider products that deliver high-concentration molecular hydrogen in a safe and convenient manner.
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Article link:
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S2210740119300853?via%3Dihub
