Human Trial of Hydrogen-rich Water in Resistence Training

In this study, the authors reported statistically significant differences in blood lactate values and muscle soreness between the hydrogen-rich water condition and placebo, along with changes in exercise-related performance markers.

This randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled cross-over trial included 12 men (mean ± SD age 23.8 ± 1.9 years).Participants consumed 1,260 mL of hydrogen-rich water or placebo before resistance training.Researchers measured set completion time, blood lactate, ratings of perceived exertion, creatine kinase, muscle soreness (VAS), countermovement jump and heart rate variability at baseline and at 30 minutes, 6 hours and 24 hours of recovery.

Mid-way through the session:

• Hydrogen-rich water group: 5.3 mmol/L
• Placebo group: 6.5 mmol/L

Difference: −1.2 mmol/L (p ≤ 0.008)This number shows the hydrogen group had lower lactate values at that point in the test.

• Hydrogen-rich water group: 5.1 mmol/L
• Placebo group: 6.3 mmol/L

Difference: −1.2 mmol/L (p ≤ 0.008)This shows a similar difference right after the exercise was completed.

• Hydrogen-rich water group: 26 mm
• Placebo group: 41 mm

Difference: −15 mm (p = 0.002)These values reflect the soreness scores the participants recorded on a visual scale.

Set completion time (lunges):The hydrogen-rich water group completed the lunge set in less time than placebo. (p < 0.001) Numerical values were not provided in the published summary.The authors reported that all of these differences were statistically significant within the conditions tested.

Researchers track markers such as blood lactate, perceived soreness and set completion time to observe trends related to fatigue, effort and recovery in exercise studies. These values can shift due to training load, hydration, supplementation, recovery strategies and individual differences. In this trial, the reported values reflect the specific protocol, population and measurement methods.

Important Note: These results describe outcomes from this single research study. They are not general health claims and do not describe the effects of any product.

Read the full article here.