What is Electrolyzed Reduced Water (ERW)?
Electrolyzed Reduced Water (ERW), also known as hydrogen water or alkaline ionized water, is created through electrolysis using a water ionizer. This process separates water into an acidic and an alkaline stream; the latter, called ERW, has an alkaline pH, negative oxidation-reduction potential (ORP), and dissolved molecular hydrogen (H2). While alkalinity and ORP were initially thought to be key, current research highlights dissolved H2 as the main source of potential benefits.
Potential Benefits and Scientific Support
Scientific interest in ERW has grown since the discovery of H2's therapeutic effects around 2007, prompting research into its potential advantages, though it's important to distinguish these from marketing exaggerations.
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Antioxidant and Anti-inflammatory Effects: Molecular hydrogen in ERW acts as a selective antioxidant, neutralizing harmful free radicals linked to oxidative stress. Studies suggest ERW consumption can lower oxidative stress markers and may have anti-inflammatory properties, potentially aiding conditions like functional dyspepsia and colitis.
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Improved Gastrointestinal Health: Some human and animal studies show positive effects on the gut. A clinical study found weakly alkaline ERW (pH 9.5) improved symptoms and quality of life for functional dyspepsia patients. Animal studies also indicate protective effects on intestinal tissue.
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Metabolic and Kidney Support: For those with metabolic issues, some animal research suggests ERW might help regulate blood sugar and improve insulin sensitivity. In hemodialysis patients, ERW has been observed to reduce markers of oxidative stress and inflammation.
Significant Safety Concerns and Risks
Despite potential benefits, ERW, particularly high-pH water from home ionizers, carries significant safety concerns.
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High pH and Hyperkalemia: Drinking ERW with a pH consistently above 9.8 is not advised, especially for individuals with kidney problems. Clinical reports connect high-pH ERW (over 10) to dangerous hyperkalemia (elevated blood potassium). Excessive alkalinity can also reduce stomach acid, potentially hindering nutrient absorption and increasing infection risk.
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Electrode Degradation and Toxicity: During electrolysis, particularly at higher voltages, particles from the platinum-coated titanium electrodes can enter the water. Research on these nanoparticles and heavy metals suggests potential toxicity risks, including cellular damage. High mineral content, high voltage, and prolonged use can worsen this electrode degradation.
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Inconsistent Molecular Hydrogen Content: The therapeutic effects depend primarily on dissolved H2, not alkalinity. However, the H2 level from ionizers can be variable and potentially below therapeutic amounts. Water mineral content, flow rate, and electrode cleanliness impact H2 concentration. ORP is an unreliable measure of H2 content because pH heavily influences it.
Comparison: ERW vs. Other Water Types
| Feature | Electrolyzed Reduced Water (ERW) | Hydrogen Water (Other Methods) | Tap Water | Bottled Alkaline Water |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Production Method | Water electrolysis using an ionizer. | Hydrogen-infusion machines, tablets, or bottled. | Municipal treatment, often with chlorine. | Enhanced with alkaline minerals and additives. |
| Key Active Component | Dissolved molecular hydrogen (H2). | Dissolved molecular hydrogen (H2). | Minerals, but no added H2 or alkalinity. | Alkaline pH, but no dissolved H2. |
| Potential Benefits | Antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, gut health support. | Potentially stronger antioxidant effects from higher H2 levels. | Basic hydration. Can be high in minerals. | High pH can offer some acid-buffering effects. |
| Potential Risks | High pH can cause hyperkalemia; electrode toxicity. | Very low risk, as pH is typically neutral; no electrode leaching. | Contaminants (e.g., chlorine, unregulated pollutants). | Often lacks H2; high cost; environmental waste. |
| Potency/Purity | Variable H2 levels; potential for heavy metal leaching. | Consistent, high H2 content; free of heavy metal contamination. | Varies by municipality; can contain contaminants. | May contain added synthetic minerals; environmental impact. |
Conclusion
The question of whether is electrolyzed reduced water good for you? has a complex answer. While the H2 in ERW shows potential antioxidant and anti-inflammatory benefits in studies, the high pH produced by some ionizers poses significant risks like hyperkalemia and heavy metal toxicity from electrodes. The actual benefits are linked to H2, not alkalinity, a point often misrepresented. Consumers should be cautious of high-pH products and unreliable ORP measurements, favoring safer H2 delivery methods like specialized tablets or neutral-pH hydrogen machines for consistent and safer benefits. Further research is needed, and those with health conditions, especially kidney issues, should consult a doctor before using ERW. The science suggests a cautious approach towards ERW and favors alternative hydrogen delivery methods. More information on the safety and science of ERW can be found in a review by researchers.
