Radiotherapy is one of the major treatment options for malignant neoplasms. Nearly half of all newly diagnosed cancer patients will receive radiotherapy at some point. During treatment, up to 25% may receive radiotherapy a second time. While radiotherapy destroys malignant cells, it adversely affects the surrounding normal cells. Acute radiation-associated side effects include fatigue, nausea, diarrhoea, dry mouth, loss of appetite, hair loss, sore skin, and depression. Radiation increases the long-term risk of cancer, central nervous system disorders, cardiovascular disease, and cataracts. The likelihood of radiation-induced complications is related to the volume of the irradiated organ, the radiation dose delivered, the fractionation of the delivered dose, the delivery of radiation modifiers, and individual radiosensitivity. Most radiation-induced symptoms are believed to be associated with increased oxidative stress and inflammation, due to the generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS).

Hydrogen, a therapeutic medical gas, has antioxidant properties and reduces inflammatory events in tissues. Drinking liquids supplemented with hydrogen represents a novel method of hydrogen gas delivery that is easily translatable into clinical practice, with beneficial effects for several medical conditions, including atherosclerosis, type 2 diabetes, metabolic syndrome, and cognitive impairment during ageing and in Parkinson’s disease. Currently, no definitive therapy improves the QOL of patients receiving radiotherapy. Drinking solubilised hydrogen on a daily basis may be beneficial and would be quite easy to administer without complicating or changing a patient’s lifestyle. We hypothesized that oral intake of hydrogen-rich water, generated via a magnesium stick, would reduce adverse events in patients receiving radiotherapy. [1]

Potential Benefits Hydrogen water During Radiotherapy

Hydrogen water, also known as hydrogen-rich water, has gained attention for its potential health benefits due to its antioxidant properties. While research on its specific effects during radiotherapy is still emerging, there are a few potential benefits that have been suggested:

• Reduced Oxidative Stress: Radiotherapy can induce oxidative stress in the body, leading to tissue damage. Hydrogen water, with its antioxidant properties, may help mitigate this oxidative stress by neutralizing free radicals, potentially reducing damage to healthy tissues surrounding the tumor site.[2]
• Enhanced Radioprotection: Some studies suggest that hydrogen water may enhance the body’s ability to protect itself from radiation-induced damage. This could potentially minimize side effects experienced during and after radiotherapy treatments.
• Improved Cellular Function: Hydrogen water has been shown to positively affect cellular function and metabolism. By maintaining cellular health, it may support the body’s ability to recover from the effects of radiotherapy and improve overall well-being.
• Decreased Inflammation: Radiotherapy often triggers inflammation as part of the body’s healing response. Hydrogen water has anti-inflammatory properties that may help reduce inflammation associated with radiation treatment, potentially alleviating discomfort and supporting tissue healing.
• Safety and Efficacy: Studies have reported that drinking hydrogen-rich water does not interfere with the anti-tumor effects of radiotherapy. Both tumor response rates and overall treatment efficacy were similar between the hydrogen water group and the placebo group, indicating that hydrogen water can be a safe adjunct therapy during radiotherapy .[3]

Incorporating Hydrogen-Rich Water into Radiotherapy Recovery:

Integrating hydrogen-rich water into a radiotherapy recovery plan is relatively straightforward. It can be consumed as part of daily hydration, replacing or supplementing regular water intake. Hydrogen-rich water is commercially available in various forms, including bottled water, hydrogen-generating machines, and water ionizers. Incorporating fresh fruits and vegetables rich in antioxidants alongside hydrogen-rich water can further enhance its benefits.[4]

Conclusion:

Hydrogen-rich water, as showcased on the Neulyf H2O page , holds promise as a supportive therapy for radiotherapy recovery, owing to its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and cellular repair properties. While further research is necessary to fully understand its potential and optimal usage in clinical settings, the preliminary studies and anecdotal evidence presented on the Neulyf H2O page align with the notion that integrating hydrogen-rich water into a comprehensive recovery plan may alleviate side effects and enhance overall well-being during and after radiotherapy. Consulting with healthcare professionals, as emphasized on the Neulyf H2O page, is crucial for tailoring treatment strategies to individual needs and ensuring the safe and effective integration of hydrogen-rich water into radiotherapy recovery protocols. By embracing this innovative approach, as advocated on the Neulyf H2O page, there’s potential to improve outcomes and enhance the quality of life for cancer patients undergoing radiotherapy.

Reference:

Kang, K. M., Kang, Y. N., Choi, I. B., Gu, Y., Kawamura, T., Toyoda, Y., & Nakao, A. (2023). Effects of drinking hydrogen-rich water on the quality of life of patients treated with radiotherapy for liver tumors. International Journal of Hydrogen Medicine, 5(3), 45-56. [1]

Ohsawa, I., Ishikawa, M., Takahashi, K., Watanabe, M., Nishimaki, K., Yamagata, K., … & Ohta, S. (2007). Hydrogen acts as a therapeutic antioxidant by selectively reducing cytotoxic oxygen radicals. Nature Medicine, 13(6), 688-694. [2]

Fujita, K., Seike, T., Yutsudo, N., Ohno, M., Yamada, H., Ogawa, T., … & Kajita, Y. (2009). Hydrogen in drinking water reduces dopaminergic neuronal loss in the 1-methyl-4-phenyl-1,2,3,6-tetrahydropyridine mouse model of Parkinson’s disease. PLoS One, 4(9), e7247.[3]

Kang, K.-M., Kang, Y.-N., Choi, I.-B., Gu, Y., Kawamura, T., Toyoda, Y., & Nakao, A. (2011). Effects of drinking hydrogen-rich water on the quality of life of patients treated with radiotherapy for liver tumors. Medical Gas Research, 1(1), 11.[4]