Molecular hydrogen has an incredibly small size and low molecular weight, allowing it to rapidly diffuse throughout the body, including through cell membranes and the blood-brain barrier. While it readily penetrates bodily tissues, it’s also eliminated quickly through exhalation. Overall, hydrogen seems to work by activating various biological pathways in ways that promote cellular homeostasis.[1]
Molecular hydrogen is a unique antioxidant in that it selectively scavenges hydroxyl and peroxynitrite radicals but not other reactive species that play important roles in cellular signaling (e.g., hydrogen peroxide). Its small size allows it to interact directly with mitochondria, possibly benefiting mitochondrial function and energy metabolism. Furthermore, hydrogen seems to increase the body’s own antioxidant mechanisms, resulting in a prolonged antioxidant effect even once it has been cleared from the body.[2]
The anti-inflammatory effects of molecular hydrogen may be related to the antioxidant effects, but hydrogen also seems to inhibit inflammatory pathways directly. Additionally, hydrogen may influence gene expression, lipid metabolism, apoptosis (programmed cell death), and autophagy (the process of breaking down and recycling cellular materials).[3][1]