General Research
Model: human
Effects of drinking hydrogen-rich water on the quality of life of patients treated with radiotherapy for liver tumors
Simplified Version Available
Hydrogen-Rich Water: A Simple Way to Ease Radiotherapy Side Effects for Liver Cancer Patients
A study from South Korea found that drinking hydrogen-rich water improved the quality of life for liver cancer patients undergoing radiotherapy. Hydrogen-rich water has antioxidant properties that can help protect the body from damage caused by free radicals. This simple, low-risk treatment could be a useful addition to traditional therapies for cancer patients.
Read Simplified ArticleAbstract
Publish Year 2011 Country South Korea Rank Positive Journal Medical Gas Research Primary Topic Liver Secondary TopicCancer Model Human Tertiary TopicRadioprotection Vehicle Water (Mg-Chemico) pH Alkaline Application Ingestion Comparison Complement
Background
Methods: A randomized, placebo-controlled study was performed to evaluate the effects of drinking hydrogen-rich water on 49 patients receiving radiotherapy for malignant liver tumors. Hydrogen-rich water was produced by placing a metallic magnesium stick into drinking water (final hydrogen concentration; 0.55~0.65 mM). The Korean version of the European Organization for Research and Treatment of Cancer's QLQ-C30 instrument was used to evaluate global health status and QOL. The concentration of derivatives of reactive oxidative metabolites and biological antioxidant power in the peripheral blood were assessed.
Methods
Results: The consumption of hydrogen-rich water for 6 weeks reduced reactive oxygen metabolites in the blood and maintained blood oxidation potential. QOL scores during radiotherapy were significantly improved in patients treated with hydrogen-rich water compared to patients receiving placebo water. There was no difference in tumor response to radiotherapy between the two groups. Conclusions: Daily consumption of hydrogen-rich water is a potentially novel, therapeutic strategy for improving QOL after radiation exposure. Consumption of hydrogen-rich water reduces the biological reaction to radiation-induced oxidative stress without compromising anti-tumor effects.