Hydrogen water is making waves in the health and wellness world, touted as a functional beverage with impressive antioxidant benefits. But as with any new trend, one question keeps popping up—is it safe? With health-conscious consumers digging deeper into what they put in their bodies, it's more important than ever to provide clear, honest answers.
This article dives into the science, expert opinions, and safety standards surrounding hydrogen water. By the end, you'll have a complete understanding of why hydrogen water is not only safe but also a smart addition to your hydration routine.
What Is Hydrogen Water?
At its core, hydrogen water is simply water infused with molecular hydrogen (H₂)—a tasteless, odourless, and non-toxic gas. While hydrogen is the smallest and most abundant molecule in the universe, its application in health and hydration is a game-changer.
Hydrogen water has been extensively studied in Japan and Korea, where it’s celebrated for its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. These regions have long recognised its potential to combat oxidative stress and aid in general well-being, which explains its growing popularity in global health circles.
Unlike regular water, hydrogen water contains dissolved H₂ gas that serves as a powerful yet selective antioxidant. It targets harmful free radicals in the body while leaving necessary ones untouched, making it a standout choice for health-conscious individuals.
What Do the Experts Say About Its Safety?
Hydrogen water’s safety is backed by decades of research and expert opinions. Here’s a detailed breakdown of why it’s considered safe:
1. Regulators Say It’s Safe
The FDA has granted hydrogen gas “Generally Recognised as Safe” (GRAS) status for use in beverages. This indicates hydrogen water is safe for consumption when used as directed, with no signs of toxicity even at higher levels than typically found in commercial products. The FDA’s review highlights the safety of hydrogen gas in beverages like water, soda, and flavoured drinks.
2. Your Body Already Produces Hydrogen
Hydrogen gas isn’t foreign to your body—it’s naturally produced during fibre fermentation in your gut. On average, your body generates up to 12 litres of hydrogen gas daily. Extra hydrogen from hydrogen water is simply exhaled through your lungs, making your body well-equipped to process it.
3. Clinical Studies Report No Serious Side Effects
Over 100 clinical trials have tested hydrogen water on thousands of participants, finding no significant adverse effects. Even at concentrations 10 times higher than typical bottled hydrogen water, no toxicity was reported. Some individuals experienced temporary bloating or mild headaches, likely due to gut bacteria adjusting, but these effects were rare and resolved quickly.
A 2024 review of 31 studies concluded that hydrogen-rich water is “mostly safe with minimal side effects,” even for athletes and individuals with specific health conditions.
4. Non-Toxic Properties
Unlike some supplements, hydrogen gas doesn’t accumulate in the body or produce harmful by-products. It acts as an antioxidant and is then exhaled within 60 minutes. Hydrogen water also doesn’t interfere with medications (except chemotherapy—consult a doctor first) or alter your body’s natural mineral balance.
Dr. Shigeo Ohta, a renowned molecular hydrogen researcher, emphasises: “Hydrogen is not only safe, but it has tremendous potential to improve health by combating free radicals.”
5. It’s Different From Regular Water
Hydrogen water hydrates you like regular water, but offers additional antioxidant benefits. Unlike alkaline or vitamin water, it doesn’t alter your body’s pH or mineral levels. The FDA confirms it’s as safe as plain water when produced under proper guidelines.
6. Rare Side Effects
Fewer than 1% of people report mild, temporary side effects like:
- Bloating: Likely caused by gut bacteria adjusting.
- Headaches: Often related to drinking too quickly.
- Loose stools: Temporary and usually resolves within days.
These effects are neither harmful nor long-lasting.
7. Expert Approval
- Scientists: Over 1,000 studies since 2007 validate the safety of hydrogen water.
- Doctors: It’s used in Japanese and Chinese hospitals for conditions like diabetes and liver disease.
- Athletes: Studies on swimmers, cyclists, and MMA fighters show enhanced recovery without side effects.
Key Takeaway
Hydrogen water is scientifically proven to be safe for consumption, with no evidence of toxicity and minimal side effects. It’s considered a low-risk way to improve hydration and health. As UCLA Health states: “No harmful effects have been found, and the benefits keep growing.”
When choosing hydrogen water, look for products with a concentration between 0.8–1.6 ppm and avoid brands making exaggerated health claims. Always consult a doctor if you have specific medical conditions, but for most people, hydrogen water remains a safe and beneficial choice.
Are There Any Known Side Effects?
The good news? There are no known harmful side effects associated with normal consumption of hydrogen water. It’s been shown to be as safe as drinking filtered or mineral water. That said, a few myths and misconceptions about side effects deserve clarification.
Hydrogen Water and Excess Intake
If you’ve heard of side effects from drinking too much hydrogen water, here’s the truth: overconsumption of any liquid, even regular water, can lead to temporary discomfort or imbalances, such as bloating or electrolyte dilution. This isn’t specific to hydrogen water.
It’s Not a Medicine
Hydrogen water is a functional beverage, not a medication. While it provides antioxidant support and other benefits, it’s not meant to treat or cure medical conditions.
Addressing Myths
Some reports of minor symptoms such as bloating or dizziness have been largely anecdotal and unconfirmed. These instances are rare and may be due to individual sensitivities or hydration patterns rather than the hydrogen itself.
For daily use, hydrogen water is as safe as your morning coffee or post-workout smoothie.
Safety Standards in Australia
Australia holds its consumables to high safety standards, and hydrogen water is no exception. Here's how hydrogen water meets these benchmarks:
- Regulation: Hydrogen water is classified as a consumable and adheres to rigorous safety guidelines set by Australian regulatory bodies.
- Production Methods: The most common methods for creating hydrogen water, including electrolysis and magnesium-based reactions, prioritise purity and safety. Additionally, reputable brands ensure their hydrogen water is free from contaminants.
- Testing and Certification: Many hydrogen water products, including ours, undergo stringent quality assurance testing. This includes hydrogen concentration verification, BPA-free packaging, and compliance with health standards.
When you choose hydrogen water in Australia, you’re opting for a product that’s been carefully crafted with your safety and well-being in mind.
Who Should Use Hydrogen Water?
Hydrogen water is suitable for a broad audience, including:
- Healthy Adults: Ideal for anyone looking to enhance hydration and overall well-being.
- Athletes: Great for post-workout recovery thanks to its antioxidant properties.
- The Elderly: Offers gentle, effective antioxidant support to combat oxidative stress.
- Professionals on the Go: Convenient, on-the-go hydration for busy lifestyles.
Pregnant individuals and those with pre-existing medical conditions should seek medical advice before incorporating hydrogen water or any new supplement into their routine. While safe for most people, it never hurts to double-check.
Daily Use Guidelines
Hydrogen water is safe to drink daily, but how much is right for you? Here’s an easy guide based on expert insights and research.
Safe Daily Range
Start with 1–2 servings (500–1,000 mL) per day to let your body adjust. This moderate amount is ideal for reaping benefits like better hydration, reduced muscle soreness, and antioxidant support. Studies show that drinking 900–1,000 mL daily for 10 weeks can improve cholesterol and antioxidant levels. While some athletes increase intake to 2 litres for recovery, beginners should stick to smaller amounts.
How to Drink It
Timing is key. Drink hydrogen water 30 minutes before meals or right after exercise for the best absorption. Since hydrogen escapes quickly, consume it within 15–30 minutes of preparation. Incorporate it into your daily routine by replacing regular water during meals or after workouts. For instance, a glass post-workout can help reduce muscle fatigue by lowering lactate levels. Handle bottles gently to prevent hydrogen gas from escaping too fast.
Consistency Over Quantity
Regular, smaller daily doses are more beneficial than occasional large amounts. Research shows consistent use over 4–6 weeks can lead to improved energy, reduced inflammation, and healthier metabolism. For example, drinking 750 mL daily for 24 weeks has shown significant health benefits compared to sporadic high doses.
Safety Notes
The FDA confirms hydrogen water is safe, even at higher doses. Excess hydrogen is harmlessly exhaled, so there’s no risk of overdose. However, it’s best to stick to 1–2 litres daily to avoid rare side effects like bloating. Pair it with a balanced diet and listen to your body’s hydration needs for optimal results.
Considering Hydrogen Water
It’s safe, functional, and easy to adopt into your lifestyle. With robust scientific support and expert endorsements, hydrogen water offers a safe and effective way to enhance your hydration and overall well-being.
Curious to give it a try? Explore our collection of hydrogen water products today. Every can is tested for quality, ranked for purity, and proudly crafted to meet Australian standards. Your wellness is our priority, and we can’t wait to help you experience the benefits firsthand!
Author: “Tremaine Fernandez – Founder & CEO of Hydrogen Water H2O
Tremaine Fernandez is the driving force behind Hydrogen Water H2O, bringing a passion for science, wellness, and innovation to the world of hydrogen-infused hydration. With a background spanning industries such as oil, gas, and precious metals, he has a proven track record of building businesses and navigating complex markets.
His journey into the health and wellness space was inspired by a desire to offer a natural, science-backed solution for better hydration and overall well-being. Tremaine believes in turning challenges into opportunities and is committed to making high-quality hydrogen water accessible to all.
Through Hydrogen Water H2O, he continues to lead with innovation, education, and a mission to help people experience the life-changing benefits of proper hydration.”