Electrolyzed–Reduced Water: Review II: Safety Concerns and Effectiveness as a Source of Hydrogen Water

Abstract

Many studies demonstrate the safety of alkaline-electrolyzed–reduced water (ERW); however, several animal studies have reported significant tissue damage and hyperkalemia after drinking ERW. The mechanism responsible for these results remains unknown but may be due to electrode degradation associated with the production of higher pH, in which platinum nanoparticles and other metals that have harmful effects may leach into the water. Clinical studies have reported that, when ERW exceeds pH 9.8, some people develop dangerous hyperkalemia. Accordingly, regulations on ERW mandate that the pH of ERW should not exceed 9.8. It is recommended that those with impaired kidney function refrain from using ERW without medical supervision. Other potential safety concerns include impaired growth, reduced mineral, vitamin, and nutrient absorption, harmful bacterial overgrowth, and damage to the mucosal lining causing excessive thirst. Since the concentration of H2 in ERW may be well below therapeutic levels, users are encouraged to frequently measure the H2 concentration with accurate methods, avoiding ORP or ORP-based H2 meters. Importantly, although, there have been many people that have used high-pH ERW without any issues, additional safety research on ERW is warranted, and ERW users should follow recommendations to not ingest ERW above 9.8 pH.

Study details

Article type

Review

Dose comparison

The article discusses how higher pH settings in ERW machines can increase hydrogen concentration but also increase safety risks, and emphasizes the need to balance pH and H2 concentration for optimal benefit and safety.

Dose-dependent effect

Yes

Outcome

Neutral

Findings

The review concludes that while electrolyzed–reduced water (ERW) is generally safe and has been associated with therapeutic benefits due to dissolved molecular hydrogen, there are significant safety concerns at high pH levels, including hyperkalemia, tissue damage, impaired nutrient absorption, and potential metal toxicity. The effectiveness of ERW as a hydrogen water source is limited by its variable and often sub-therapeutic hydrogen concentrations, especially when pH is kept within safe limits. Users are advised to avoid ERW above pH 9.8 and to monitor hydrogen concentration with accurate methods.