Hydrogen-rich water improves sleep consolidation and enhances forebrain neuronal activation in mice

Abstract

Study Objectives: Sleep loss contributes to various health issues and impairs neurological function. Molecular hydrogen has recently gained popularity as a nontoxic ergogenic and health promoter. The effect of molecular hydrogen on sleep and sleep-related neural systems remains unexplored. This study investigates the impact of hydrogen-rich water (HRW) on sleep behavior and neuronal acti- vation in sleep-deprived mice. Methods: Adult C57BL/6J mice were implanted with electroencephalography (EEG) and electromyography (EMG) recording electrodes and given HRW (0.7–1.4 mM) or regular water for 7 days ad libitum. Sleep–wake cycles were recorded under baseline conditions and after acute sleep loss. Neuronal activation in sleep- and wake-related regions was assessed using cFos immunostaining. Results: HRW increased sleep consolidation in undisturbed mice and increased non-rapid-eye movement and rapid-eye-movement sleep amount in sleep-deprived mice. HRW also decreased the average amount of time for mice to fall asleep after light onset. Neuronal activation in the lateral septum, medial septum, ventrolateral preoptic area, and median preoptic area was significantly altered in all mice treated with HRW. Conclusions: HRW improves sleep consolidation and increases neuronal activation in sleep-related brain regions. It may serve as a simple, effective treatment to improve recovery after sleep loss.

Study details

Article type

Original Research

Disease / injury model

Sleep deprivation/insomnia model in mice

Duration

7 days

Outcome

Positive

Findings

Hydrogen-rich water (HRW) improved sleep consolidation, reduced sleep onset latency, and increased NREM and REM sleep amounts after sleep deprivation in mice. HRW also increased neuronal activation in sleep-related brain regions, suggesting it may be a promising supplement for improving sleep efficiency and recovery after sleep loss.