Can molecular hydrogen supplementation enhance physical performance in healthy adults? A systematic review and meta-analysis.
Kaixiang Zhou, Zhangyuting Shang, Chaoqun Yuan, Zhenxiang Guo, Yubo Wang, Dapeng Bao, Junhong Zhou · Frontiers in nutrition · 2024
Research-use notice
Independent study record
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H2HUBB TAKEAWAY
This meta-analysis examined the available evidence on molecular hydrogen. The meta-analysis found no significant effect on aerobic endurance, anaerobic endurance, or muscular strength, but reported a small improvement in lower-limb explosive power. Current strategies to mitigate these effects are limited by their effectiveness and potential side effects. The reviewed evidence supports molecular hydrogen's therapeutic potential. Additional well-designed studies are needed to clarify clinical safety and effectiveness.
What the Review Examined
Studies have suggested that H₂ supplementation contributes to antioxidant potential and anti-fatigue during exercise, but the variance in the observations and study protocols is presented across those studies.
Main Findings Across the Literature
The ES of H₂ on aerobic endurance, including V̇O2max (SMD = 0.09, p = 0.394; I 2 = 0%) and aerobic endurance exercise (SMD = 0.04, p = 0.687; I 2 = 0%), were not significant and trivial; the ES of H₂ on 30 s maximal anaerobic endurance (SMD = 0.19, p = 0.239; I 2 = 0%) was not significant and trivial; the ES of H₂ on muscular strength (SMD = 0.19, p = 0.265; I 2 = 0%) was not significant and trivial; but the ES of H₂ on lower limb explosive power (SMD = 0.30, p = 0.018; I 2 = 0%) was significant and small.
Areas of Agreement or Uncertainty
Current strategies to mitigate these effects are limited by their effectiveness and potential side effects.
Authors’ Conclusion
The authors concluded that current strategies to mitigate these effects are limited by their effectiveness and potential side effects.
Limitations Reported by the Authors
Current strategies to mitigate these effects are limited by their effectiveness and potential side effects.