Key Takeaway
Meta-analysis found hydrogen-rich water significantly reduced total cholesterol and LDL-C in clinical populations, with larger effects in metabolically unhealthy individuals.
Summary
This systematic review and meta-analysis examined the effects of hydrogen-rich water (HRW) on blood lipid profiles across multiple clinical populations. The pooled analysis synthesized data from randomized controlled trials to evaluate changes in total cholesterol, LDL-C, HDL-C, and triglycerides.
The results demonstrated that HRW consumption significantly improved lipid profiles, particularly in populations with metabolic dysfunction. The effects were more pronounced in subjects with baseline dyslipidemia, suggesting HRW may be most beneficial for those with elevated cardiovascular risk.
The meta-analysis provides quantitative evidence supporting HRW as a potential adjunctive therapy for lipid management, though the authors note that more high-quality RCTs are needed.
Methods
The review searched PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and EMBASE for randomized controlled trials examining HRW effects on blood lipids. Meta-analysis was performed using random-effects models. Subgroup analyses were conducted based on health status (metabolically healthy vs. unhealthy) and intervention duration. Risk of bias was assessed using Cochrane tools, and funnel plots evaluated publication bias.
Key Results
The meta-analysis found:
- Total cholesterol: Significant reduction (SMD = -0.42, 95% CI: -0.68 to -0.16)
- LDL-C: Significant reduction, particularly in metabolically unhealthy subjects
- HDL-C: Modest improvements in some subgroups
- Triglycerides: Variable results across studies
Effects were strongest in participants with baseline metabolic dysfunction and with longer intervention durations (>4 weeks).
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Limitations
- Limited number of included studies
- Heterogeneity in HRW concentrations and delivery methods
- Varied definitions of "metabolically unhealthy" across studies
- Most studies from Asian populations, limiting generalizability
- Potential publication bias despite funnel plot analysis