Hydrogen Water for Cancer: Benefits & Research

DISCLAIMER - PLEASE READ

The content in this blog post is intended solely for educational and informational purposes, summarising and commenting on existing peer-reviewed scientific research regarding hydrogen water and its potential benefits. We are not offering medical or health advice, and no part of this article should be interpreted as a recommendation for treatment or prevention of any health condition, including cancer.

Hydrogen water is not a substitute for conventional medical treatments, and we strongly encourage individuals to consult their healthcare providers before making any decisions about their health.

At Evolved H2O, we have deep empathy and compassion for those who are currently dealing with or have been affected by cancer. We recognise the challenges and emotional toll that such a serious illness can bring, and we want to be very clear that this post is not suggesting any cure or therapeutic benefit. Our goal is to present the research in an accessible manner, without making any claims or promises regarding its efficacy.

Exploring the Link Between Hydrogen Water and Cancer

The potential of hydrogen-rich water as a complementary therapy for cancer has garnered significant attention in recent years. Researchers are investigating its effects on various aspects of cancer, including whether it can help support conventional treatments, potentially reduce treatment-related side effects, and improve patients' overall quality of life. It is important to note that these studies are still in early stages, and more clinical trials are needed to establish its role and effectiveness.

Current Research on Hydrogen Water's Effects on Cancer Cells

Several studies have explored the potential benefits of hydrogen water in the context of cancer treatment. For instance, one notable study found that hydrogen-rich water may help protect liver function in patients undergoing chemotherapy for malignant liver tumors. The results indicated that consuming hydrogen water during chemotherapy was associated with maintaining normal liver function and a reduced incidence of adverse effects. However, these findings are preliminary and should not be used to guide treatment decisions.

Another study investigated the effects of hydrogen-rich water on patients receiving radiotherapy for liver tumors. The findings suggested that consuming hydrogen water might help improve the patients' quality of life by possibly reducing fatigue, loss of appetite, and other radiation-induced side effects. These results hint at the potential value of hydrogen water as an adjunctive (supplementary) therapy, but more research is required before any recommendations can be made.

Furthermore, a study on mice exposed to radiation found that hydrogen-rich water provided some level of protection against radiation-induced bone marrow damage. This finding is particularly relevant for cancer patients undergoing radiation therapy, where bone marrow suppression is a common side effect. However, results in animal models do not necessarily translate to humans, and further studies are needed.

Potential Mechanisms Behind Hydrogen Water's Anti-Cancer Properties

While the exact mechanisms behind hydrogen water's anti-cancer properties are still being investigated, several theories have been proposed. One potential mechanism is hydrogen's ability to selectively target and neutralize harmful reactive oxygen species (ROS) while preserving beneficial ROS involved in cellular signaling. By reducing oxidative stress, hydrogen water may help prevent DNA damage and mutations that can lead to cancer development.

Inflammation is another key factor in cancer progression, and hydrogen water has been shown to exhibit anti-inflammatory properties. By modulating the expression of pro-inflammatory cytokines and regulating inflammatory pathways, hydrogen water may help create a less favorable environment for tumor growth and metastasis.

Interestingly, a study on colon cancer cells found that hydrogen-rich water exhibited synergistic effects when combined with the chemotherapy drug 5-fluorouracil (5-FU). The combination of hydrogen water and 5-FU enhanced the inhibitory effects on cancer cell growth compared to 5-FU alone. This finding suggests that hydrogen-infused water may potentiate the efficacy of conventional cancer treatments.

What is Hydrogen Water and How Does it Work?

Hydrogen water has recently become popular for its health benefits, including its potential to combat cancer. But what is hydrogen water, and how does it function within the body?

Hydrogen water is essentially water infused with molecular hydrogen gas. This process involves dissolving hydrogen molecules into the water. It creates a potent antioxidant solution for various health benefits.

Understanding the Properties of Hydrogen Water

The health benefits of hydrogen water stem from its unique properties. Molecular hydrogen dissolved in water acts as a powerful reducing agent. It neutralizes harmful oxidative stress in the body.

Oxidative stress occurs when free radicals overwhelm the body's antioxidant defenses. Free radicals damage cells, proteins, and DNA, leading to diseases like cancer. Hydrogen water provides additional antioxidants, helping to combat these free radicals and reduce oxidative stress.

The Potential Mechanisms Behind Hydrogen Water's Health Benefits

Research indicates that hydrogen water's antioxidant properties are key to its health benefits. Molecular hydrogen in water diffuses into cells and tissues, protecting against oxidative damage. This is crucial in fighting cancer, as oxidative stress aids in malignant cell development and progression.

Hydrogen water may also support cellular health through other mechanisms. For instance, it can regulate inflammation, a factor in chronic diseases like cancer. Additionally, it activates the Nrf2 pathway, enhancing the body's antioxidant response.

By stimulating endogenous antioxidants like glutathione, hydrogen water boosts the body's defense against oxidative stress and cellular damage. While more research is needed, current evidence suggests hydrogen water's unique properties could play a role in fighting cancer and improving overall health.

Hydrogen Water and Its Potential Role in Cancer Therapy: A Comprehensive Overview

Hydrogen water, known for its potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, has recently garnered attention for its potential therapeutic role in cancer treatment and management. Several studies have explored the effects of molecular hydrogen on various cancer types, including its ability to support immune function, reduce treatment side effects, and potentially enhance the effectiveness of conventional therapies. Below is a synthesis of findings from five key studies that investigate hydrogen water and hydrogen gas inhalation in the context of cancer treatment.

1. Hydrogen and Immunosenescence in Lung Cancer

A study published in Medical Gas Research investigated the effects of hydrogen gas inhalation on immunosenescence—immune system aging—in patients with advanced non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) (Chen et al., 2020). The study included 20 patients who underwent hydrogen inhalation therapy for two weeks, inhaling a mixture of 66.7% hydrogen and 33.3% oxygen for four hours daily. The results indicated significant improvements in immune cell subsets, including a decrease in exhausted and senescent cytotoxic T cells and an increase in functional helper T cells, natural killer (NK) cells, and gamma delta (γδ) T cells. These findings suggest that hydrogen inhalation can partially restore immune function in NSCLC patients, making it a potential adjunctive therapy for enhancing the body’s immune response during cancer treatment.

2. Hydrogen Inhalation and Radiation-Induced Bone Marrow Damage

Another study, also published in Medical Gas Research, explored the impact of hydrogen gas inhalation on radiation-induced bone marrow damage in end-stage cancer patients undergoing intensity-modulated radiation therapy (IMRT) (Hirano et al., 2021). This retrospective study included 23 patients, with one group receiving IMRT alone and the other group receiving IMRT combined with hydrogen gas inhalation. The results showed that hydrogen gas inhalation significantly alleviated IMRT-induced reductions in white blood cell (WBC) and platelet (PLT) counts, suggesting that hydrogen could protect bone marrow function during radiotherapy. Importantly, the hydrogen inhalation did not compromise the anti-tumor effects of IMRT, highlighting its potential as a radioprotective agent.

3. Hydrogen and Gastric Cancer Cell Inhibition

A study published in Cancer Cell International examined the effects of hydrogen on gastric cancer cells, focusing on the molecular mechanisms by which hydrogen can inhibit cancer cell proliferation and migration (Zhu et al., 2021). The study found that hydrogen exposure reduced the expression of lncRNA MALAT1, a known oncogenic factor, while increasing levels of miR-124-3p, which has tumor-suppressive properties. This modulation led to the downregulation of the EZH2 gene, ultimately inhibiting the growth and spread of gastric cancer cells in both in vitro and mouse models. While these findings are promising, further clinical studies are needed to confirm the efficacy and safety of hydrogen therapy in gastric cancer patients.

4. Hydrogen and Cancer Immunotherapy Enhancement

A study explored in Oncology Letters focused on the synergistic effects of hydrogen therapy when combined with nivolumab, an anti-PD-1 immunotherapy used in advanced lung cancer (Akagi & Baba, 2020). The study found that patients receiving both hydrogen and nivolumab showed longer overall survival compared to those receiving nivolumab alone. The authors hypothesized that hydrogen enhances the efficacy of immunotherapy by rejuvenating exhausted CD8+ T cells and improving mitochondrial function, suggesting a potential supportive role of hydrogen in cancer immunotherapy.

5. Real-World Evidence of Hydrogen Therapy in Cancer

A real-world study published in Medical Gas Research assessed hydrogen inhalation in 82 advanced cancer patients, many of whom had not responded to conventional treatments (Chen et al., 2019). After 3–46 months of hydrogen therapy, over half of the patients experienced some degree of disease control, including partial remission in certain cases. The study also reported improvements in quality of life metrics, such as reduced fatigue, improved appetite, and better physical fitness, particularly in lung cancer patients. Although the study did not claim hydrogen as a cure for cancer, the findings suggest that hydrogen therapy may have potential benefits as a complementary treatment to improve patient outcomes and quality of life.

Implications and Future Directions

Collectively, these studies indicate that hydrogen, whether administered as hydrogen water or gas, has potential as a supportive therapy in cancer treatment. Its ability to modulate oxidative stress, support immune function, and protect against treatment-induced side effects makes it a promising adjunct to conventional cancer therapies. However, it is crucial to note that these findings are preliminary, and larger, randomized clinical trials are necessary to fully understand hydrogen's role in cancer therapy. Patients and healthcare providers should approach hydrogen therapy with caution, keeping in mind that it is not a substitute for established cancer treatments.

Final Thoughts on Hydrogen Water and Cancer

The potential of hydrogen water as a complementary cancer therapy is intriguing, but it’s important to note that research in this area is still in its early stages. While some studies suggest it may help reduce oxidative stress and inflammation—factors that play a role in cancer progression—these findings are preliminary and should not be considered conclusive. There is no evidence to suggest that hydrogen water can cure or prevent cancer, and it is not a substitute for conventional cancer treatments.

Future research should focus on understanding the specific pathways through which hydrogen water might interact with cancer cells, as well as determining safe and effective dosages for patients. Any consideration of integrating hydrogen water into a treatment plan should be done in collaboration with healthcare providers to ensure it complements existing therapies without interference.

It is essential for individuals to consult their oncologists or healthcare professionals before incorporating hydrogen water or any other complementary therapies into their cancer treatment regimen. Being informed and working closely with medical professionals helps ensure that patients receive the best care and support for their unique health needs.