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Medical Disclaimer: The information provided in this blog post is for informational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.

Hydrogen water, also known as H2 water or molecular hydrogen water, has been gaining attention in recent years for its potential health benefits. One of the most promising areas of research is its potential to protect against joint diseases. A recent study, published in the journal “Molecular Hydrogen Medicine,” found that molecular hydrogen (H2) functions as an extensive protector against oxidative stress, inflammation, and allergic reactions in various biological models and clinical tests.

The study, conducted by Teruyasu Hanaoka and his colleagues, examined the effects of H2 on chondrocytes, the cells that make up cartilage in joints. The researchers treated cultured chondrocytes from porcine hindlimb cartilage or from rat meniscus fibrecartilage with a donor of nitric oxide (NO), S-nitroso-N-acetylpenicillamine (SNAP) in the presence or absence of H2. They found that SNAP treatment increased the levels of nitrated proteins, which can lead to cell death. However, H2 decreased the levels of the nitrated proteins and suppressed chondrocyte death.

The researchers also found that H2 restored the gene expressions of matrix proteins of cartilage, such as aggrecan and type II collagen, and down-regulated matrix metalloproteinases (MMP3 and MMP13), which are known to be up-regulated by nitric oxide and can lead to joint damage.

These findings suggest that H2 may have a protective effect on joint health by reducing the levels of nitric oxide and restoring the balance of matrix proteins and metalloproteinases in chondrocytes. This could have implications for the prevention and treatment of joint diseases such as osteoarthritis.

It’s important to note that this is just one study and more research is needed to fully understand the potential benefits of hydrogen water for joint health. However, the findings are promising and suggest that hydrogen water could be a novel solution for those looking to improve their joint health.

As always, it is important to consult with your doctor before making any changes to your healthcare routine. If you are interested in trying hydrogen water, be sure to speak with your doctor to determine if it is right for you.

Hanaoka, T., et al., Molecular hydrogen protects chondrocytes from oxidative stress and indirectly alters gene expressions through reducing peroxynitrite derived from nitric oxide. Medical Gas Research, 2011. 1(1): p. 18.