Key Differences Between Hydrogen Water and Alkaline Water
Definition and Composition
- Hydrogen Water: Also known as hydrogen-rich water or “suiso water,” it contains dissolved molecular hydrogen (H₂). In regular water, hydrogen exists as part of the H₂O compound. Hydrogen water is made by dissolving additional hydrogen gas into water using specialized techniques.
- Alkaline Water: Water with a pH greater than 7, containing alkaline substances such as hydroxide ions or mineral salts of calcium, magnesium, and potassium. These components lower the concentration of hydrogen ions in the water.
Characteristics
Hydrogen Water
- Strong Antioxidant Properties: Molecular hydrogen selectively neutralizes harmful free radicals, reducing oxidative stress, which may help slow aging and prevent certain diseases.
- Negative ORP (Oxidation-Reduction Potential): Typically ranges between -300mV and -500mV, indicating strong reducing power.
- pH Level: Usually mildly alkaline, with a pH between 7.0 and 9.5. However, its main benefit comes from hydrogen content rather than alkalinity.
Alkaline Water
- Higher pH: Typically ranges from 7.1 to 9.0 or even higher, depending on its source and production method.
- Cleansing and Buffering Effect: Theoretically, it can neutralize acidic substances in the body and help maintain pH balance. However, the human body has a powerful natural acid-base regulation system, so its impact is relatively limited.
Mechanism of Action
- Hydrogen Water: Works through the biological effects of molecular hydrogen. Hydrogen can enter cells and react with reactive oxygen species (ROS), converting them into harmless water molecules. This reduces oxidative stress and may play a role in preventing and managing various diseases.
- Alkaline Water: Functions by neutralizing stomach acid and potentially adjusting the acid-base microenvironment in body fluids. For example, in the digestive system, alkaline water can help counteract stomach acid, easing discomfort from acidity.
Suitable Groups
Hydrogen Water
- People Under High Stress or Fatigue: Helps alleviate fatigue and restore energy.
- Individuals at Risk for Chronic Diseases: May help prevent or improve conditions such as cardiovascular diseases and diabetes.
- Those with Allergies: Could help relieve allergy symptoms.
Alkaline Water
- People with Excess Stomach Acid: May help neutralize acid and relieve stomach discomfort.
- Individuals with High Uric Acid Levels: Theoretically, it can help alkalize urine and promote uric acid excretion, potentially benefiting those with hyperuricemia (high uric acid levels).
Production Methods
- Hydrogen Water: Can be produced through electrolysis or physical hydrogen dissolution.
- Electrolysis: Uses an electrolyzer to split water, producing hydrogen gas at the cathode, which dissolves into the water.
- Physical Dissolution: Uses high-pressure hydrogen infusion, nano-bubble technology, or similar methods to dissolve hydrogen gas into water.
- Alkaline Water: Can occur naturally or be artificially produced.
- Natural Sources: Found in certain mineral springs and natural alkaline water sources.
- Artificial Methods: Created through electrolysis, where alkaline water forms at the cathode, or by adding alkaline substances like sodium bicarbonate or sodium carbonate to adjust the pH.
