Medical Advice Disclaimer: This blog post is for informational purposes only and is not intended to replace the advice of a medical professional. If you have any concerns about your health or are experiencing symptoms, please consult a doctor or other qualified healthcare provider.
Osteopenia, or the gradual loss of bone density and strength, is a common condition that affects many women as they age. One of the main causes of osteopenia is the loss of estrogen, which occurs naturally during menopause or as a result of a surgical procedure called ovariectomy. A recent study published in the British Journal of Pharmacology has found that hydrogen water (HW) consumption may have a preventative effect on osteopenia in ovariectomized rats.
The study was conducted on ovariectomized rats, which are animals that have had their ovaries removed. These rats were divided into two groups: one group was given regular water to drink, while the other group was given HW (1.3 ± 0.2 mg·L⁻¹) for a period of three months. At the end of the study, the researchers collected blood samples and examined the femur and vertebrae of the rats.
The results of the study showed that the consumption of HW in ovariectomized rats had no significant effect on estrogen production. However, it did prevent the reduction of bone mass in the femur and vertebrae, preserving mechanical strength and bone structure. The HW consumption also abated oxidative stress and suppressed the expression of certain inflammatory molecules in the femur of ovariectomized rats. Additionally, it increased femur endothelial NOS activity and enhanced circulating nitric oxide levels in ovariectomized rats.
The researchers concluded that HW consumption may prevent osteopenia in ovariectomized rats by abating oxidative stress caused by estrogen withdrawal. This is thought to occur through the antioxidant properties of hydrogen gas, which selectively reduces hydroxyl radicals and peroxynitrite anion.
This study is a promising step in the understanding of the potential benefits of hydrogen water in preventing bone loss. However, it is important to note that this study was conducted on rats and more research is needed to determine whether these findings can be applied to humans. Nevertheless, it is possible that consuming hydrogen water may be a useful addition to a bone health regimen for women who are at risk of osteopenia.
As a reminder, it is always best to consult a doctor or other qualified healthcare provider before making any changes to your diet or exercise regimen.
Guo, J.D., et al., Hydrogen water consumption prevents osteopenia in ovariectomized rats. Br J Pharmacol, 2013. 168(6): p. 1412-20.
