The effect of hydrogen‑rich water consumption on premenstrual symptoms and quality of life: a randomized controlled trial

Abstract

Background  Premenstrual syndrome (PMS) consists of psychiatric or somatic symptoms negatively affecting the daily life. PMS treatment can involve the use of complementary-alternative approaches. Hydrogen-rich water (HRW) has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that may treat PMS. This study aimed to investigate the effect of drinking HRW on the severity of premenstrual symptoms and the quality of life of women who suffer from PMS. Methods  This study is a randomized controlled trial. Participants were randomized into two groups (intervention group=33, control group=32) using the block randomization method. Participants were requested to consume 1500-2000 mL of HRW daily in the intervention group and drink water in the placebo group. Participants began drinking either HRW or placebo water from day 16 of their menstrual cycle until day 2 of the following cycle for three men- strual cycles. The research data were collected using a Demographic Information Form, Premenstrual Syndrome Scale (PMSS), and Short form of the World Health Organization Quality of Life Questionnaire (WHOQOL- BREF). Results  The intervention group had significantly lower mean scores than the control group in both the first and sec- ond follow-ups on the PMSS (P<0.05). In the first follow-up, the intervention group had significantly higher mean scores in the Physical Health and Psychological domains of the WHOQOL-BREF compared to the control group (P<0.05). Group × time interaction was significant for PMSS (F = 10.54, P<0.001). Group × time interaction was insignifi- cant for WHOQOL- BREF (P>0.05). Conclusions  The consumption of HRW reduces the severity of premenstrual symptoms and improves individuals’ quality of life in physical and psychological domains.

Study details

Article type

Original Research

Disease / injury model

Premenstrual syndrome (PMS)

Duration

3 months

Outcome

Positive

Findings

Consumption of hydrogen-rich water (HRW) significantly reduced the severity of premenstrual symptoms and improved quality of life in the physical and psychological domains among women with PMS compared to placebo.