10 Surprising Health Benefits of Hydrogen Water You Didn't Know About

Hydrogen water sounds surprising, doesn't it? What's the need to add hydrogen to water that already contains two molecules of hydrogen? But do you know what's more surprising? The health benefits of molecular hydrogen water that half of the world still doesn't know about.

Check out this blog to learn about the potential health benefits of drinking hydrogen water.

What's There In Hydrogen Water that Makes It Unique

Before jumping straight to the benefits, let's first learn what makes hydrogen water extraordinary. Hydrogen water is just like regular water, but it doesn't contain calories, protein, fat, or carbohydrates. However, it has infused molecular hydrogen gas (H2). H2 water acts as a 'selective' antioxidant that neutralizes harmful free radicals and ROS without altering the amount of beneficial ones.

You may find vitamins and minerals in hydrogen water, available in both liquid and tablet forms, including magnesium, potassium, and zinc. Hydrogen water may have health potential. However, one of the most evident and proven nutritional and health benefits of hydrogen water is that it's a source of hydration. It can contribute to your total hydration instantly without adding any synthetic sugars.

Also read: How to add molecular H2 tablets to your regime.

10 Reasons Why You Should Consider Drinking Hydrogen Water

You may have seen many celebrities endorsing the consumption of hydrogen water, which might leave you wondering if hydrogen water is actually a health drink or just a hype. Worry less. Here are the 10 surprising potential health benefits that make hydrogen water a "miracle health drink" in today's era.

  1. Regulate Redox Homeostasis

You may have often heard that hydrogen water is a potent antioxidant. However, that's not the whole truth. The truth is that hydrogen-rich water can regulate redox homeostasis. It can balance the harmful ROS involved in cellular signaling, combating oxidative stress and diseases linked to it.

The smaller molecular size of H2 allows it to diffuse across cell membranes and penetrate deeper into them, selectively neutralizing harmful free radicals. Few studies support the idea that hydrogen can activate the antioxidant defense mechanism by activating the NRF2-KEAP1 system, a crucial cellular defense mechanism against oxidative stress.

  1. Youthful Energy and Skin Vitality

In vitro studies suggest that drinking hydrogen water can be beneficial for the skin. In preliminary studies, hydrogen-rich water has shown a noticeable reduction in the size and intensity of skin blotches caused by fluctuations in melanin. Also, by neutralizing free radicals and ROS, hydrogen water may slow down aging, contributing to improved skin appearance.

Another study suggests that hydrogen gas mitigates oxidative stress-induced damage in skin cells. It might be because it reduces disulfide bonds in inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate receptors (IP3Rs), which are responsible for calcium signaling. By regulating calcium signaling, hydrogen gas may help maintain skin cell function, thereby slowing down the aging process.

  1. Cognitive and Neuroprotective Potential

Do you know what's more exciting about molecular hydrogen? It's neuroprotective potential! You heard it right! Current studies suggest that molecular hydrogen may offer protection against stroke, neurodegenerative diseases, neurotrauma, and global brain injury due to H2's antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.

Another study supports that drinking hydrogen water may reduce anxiety in chronic patients, contributing to overall mental health. Furthermore, hydrogen water reduces mitochondrial oxidative stress, which prevents mitochondrial dysfunction. Mitochondrial dysfunction refers to the biological condition in which mitochondria fail to function properly in response to diseases or disorders, which is a major contributor to neurodegenerative diseases.

  1. Contribute to Post-Radiation Wellness

You might be amazed to find out that drinking hydrogen water may reduce the side effects of radiation therapy. When cancer patients undergo radiation therapy, they face many symptoms that affect their quality of life, including fatigue, anxiety, hair loss, skin problems, soreness, and much more. Not only are these symptoms painful, but they also lower one's confidence in survival.

In a preliminary study, 49 people with liver cancer who drank hydrogen-rich water for six weeks showed a significant improvement during treatment. However, more human-based research is needed to find out the mechanism and rate at which hydrogen lessens the negative impacts of radiation therapies.

Find Out More: Early Signs of Cancer.

  1. Faster Recovery and Athletic Endurance

If you're an athlete or sports person, you should know how muscular fatigue affects your athletic performance. It not only delays the recovery rate but also reduces muscle strength and can even impair coordination. An increase in reactive oxygen species due to intense exercise leads to muscle fatigue. What's worse is that about 30-60% of athletes experience muscle fatigue at some point in their training.

There's always a bright side! Molecular hydrogen water might improve athletic performance by neutralizing unstable molecules. In an experiment, cyclists who drank hydrogen water showed significant improvement in their cycling performance. However, there are still limited human trials to confirm these benefits.

Read more: How hydrogen tablets for water aid muscle recovery post-intense workout.

  1. Boost Metabolic Health

According to recent data, in the US, about 24% of men and 23% of women suffer from metabolic disorders. It includes a range of disorders, including type 2 diabetes, which was responsible for 6.7 million deaths in 2021. Metabolic disorder is also the primary cause of abnormal blood pressure, sugars, triglycerides, cardiovascular risks, obesity, and low HDL levels. 

Emerging research suggests that hydrogen-rich water may have potential metabolic advantages. It may alter the gut microbiota, increasing the number of beneficial bacteria. Furthermore, participants who consumed hydrogen water showed improved glucose metabolism and lipid profiles, both key indicators of better metabolic health.

  1. Aid Cardiovascular Well-Being

Low-density lipid, or 'bad' cholesterol, is the primary factor behind the development of harmful cardiovascular diseases. When low-density lipid levels are high, they can accumulate in arteries, restricting blood flow. According to the American Heart Association, high LDL can lead to fatal diseases, including stroke, peripheral artery disease, and coronary heart disease.

Studies have shown that drinking hydrogen water may reduce total and LDL cholesterol levels, particularly in smokers. It may also enhance the functionality of HDL. Additionally, HRW consumption has registered a notable reduction in apolipoprotein B100 (apoB100), an LDL protein associated with the risk of atherosclerosis and cardiovascular diseases.

  1. Maintain Inflammatory Balance

The statistics might astonish you, but more than 50% of all deaths worldwide are due to chronic inflammatory diseases, including cancer, diabetes, stroke, dementia, and more. Chronic inflammation can cause prolonged tissue damage and disrupt normal body functions. When left untreated for a long time, it can affect the body's healing mechanism.

A 2020 study finds that participants who drink 1.5 liters of hydrogen water per day register reduced inflammatory response. Not only that, but another study also finds that continuous drinking of hydrogen water for 24 weeks may improve markers of inflammation, especially in patients with metabolic syndrome. However, more studies are needed to confirm the results in a wide range of populations.

  1. Can Be A Therapy For COVID-19 Patients

COVID-19- the pandemic that brought the world to its knees. As of February 2025, the novel coronavirus was responsible for approximately 7,087,718 deaths worldwide. What's worse is that its relentless variants are still around the globe, posing an ongoing threat to human health. Hydrogen-rich water may serve as supportive therapy in managing COVID-19.

Preliminary studies find that Hydrogen-rich water supports COVID-19 patients by modulating immune response and reducing inflammation. Clinical recommendations, particularly from China, suggest that inhaling hydrogen gas is a supportive treatment for COVID-19 patients. The best part is that hydrogen therapy is easy to administer compared to other alternatives. Depending on their health conditions, patients can either inhale hydrogen gas, drink hydrogen-rich water, or inject hydrogen-saturated saline.

  1. Contribute to Liver Metabolism

About 25% of the US adult population suffers from non-alcoholic fatty liver disease. Often unnoticed in the beginning, NAFLD can lead to severe liver damage and even cancer in a later stage. But here's some good news. Hydrogen-rich water has shown the potential to support liver health by reducing oxidative stress and improving liver function among patients with hepatitis B and NAFLD.

Studies have found that drinking hydrogen water for 28 continuous days can affect overall liver health. Dual-echo MRI has shown a significant reduction in liver fat content. Moreover, in clinical studies, it also has lower serum aspartate transaminase (AST) levels, which indicates liver damage.

Quick Recap

While hydrogen water has gained popularity for its health benefits, uncertainties still surround it. Human-based research and studies to confirm the efficacy and functioning of hydrogen water are still limited. However, most studies suggest that hydrogen water can help combat excessive free radicals, inflammation, metabolic syndrome, and improve athletic performance. Since there are no side effects from drinking hydrogen water over time, you can always add GRAS-approved H2 tablets or water to your regimen!

Disclaimer: These statements have not been assessed by the FDA. The information contained within this page is for educational purposes only. It is not intended to replace the advice or care of healthcare professionals. Further large-scale clinical trials are necessary to fully understand the therapeutic effects of hydrogen-rich water in the human ecosystem.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: Are there any side effects of drinking hydrogen water every day?

There are no significant side effects of drinking hydrogen water. However, a few individuals have reported bloating and diarrhea after consuming excessive hydrogen water.

Q2: Is hydrogen water good for the kidneys?

Yes, drinking hydrogen water may suppress kidney damage and neutralize free radicals.

Q3: What is the main disadvantage of hydrogen water?

Cost factor! Drinking hydrogen water can be expensive, making it not so affordable for low-income individuals.

Q4: What is the best time to drink hydrogen water?

You can drink it like regular water or on an empty stomach.

References:

1. Lee, H., Kim, J., Park, S., et al. (2023). Redox-Mechanisms of Molecular Hydrogen Promote Healthful Longevity. June 2023. Available: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10215238/

2. Cheng, D., Long, J., Zhao, L., & Liu, J. (2024). Hydrogen: A Rising Star in Gas Medicine as a Mitochondria-Targeting Nutrient via Activating Keap1-Nrf2 Antioxidant System. Redox Biology, 67, 102997. Available: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10740752/

3. Asada, R., Saitoh, Y., & Miwa, N. (2019). Effects of hydrogen-rich water bath on visceral fat and skin blotch, with boiling-resistant hydrogen bubbles. April–June 2019. Available: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC6607864/

4. Wu, C.-Y., Hsu, W.-L., Tsai, M.-H., et al. (2017). Hydrogen gas protects IP3Rs by reducing disulfide bridges in human keratinocytes under oxidative stress. June 15, 2017. Available: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC5472599/

5. Fernández-Serrano, A. B., Moya-Faz, F. J., Giner Alegría, C. A., et al. (2022). Effects of hydrogen water and psychological treatment in a sample of women with panic disorder: a randomized and controlled clinical trial. May 30, 2022. Available: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9239392/

6. Wikipedia contributors. (2024). COVID-19 pandemic. April 2024. Available: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/COVID-19_pandemic

7. Kang, K.-M., Kang, Y.-N., Choi, I.-B., et al. (2011). Effects of drinking hydrogen-rich water on the quality of life of patients treated with radiotherapy for liver tumors. June 7, 2011. Available: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC3231938/

8. Korovljev, D., Stajer, V., Ostojic, J., LeBaron, T. W., & Ostojic, S. M. (2019). Hydrogen-rich water reduces liver fat accumulation and improves liver enzyme profiles in patients with non-alcoholic fatty liver disease: a randomized controlled pilot trial. November 2019. Available: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30982748/

9. Timón, R., Olcina, G., González-Custodio, A., et al. (2021). Effects of 7-day intake of hydrogen-rich water on physical performance of trained and untrained subjects. June 2021. Available: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC8139351/

10. Bentley-Lewis, R., Koruda, K., & Seely, E. W. (2007). The metabolic syndrome in women. October 2007. Available: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC4428566/

11. International Diabetes Federation. (2024). IDF Diabetes Atlas. April 2024. Available: https://diabetesatlas.org/

12. National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK). (2024). Definition & Facts of NAFLD & NASH. April 2024. Available: https://www.niddk.nih.gov/health-information/liver-disease/nafld-nash/definition-facts

13. American Heart Association. (2024). Coronary Artery Disease - Coronary Heart Disease. April 2024. Available: https://www.heart.org/en/health-topics/consumer-healthcare/what-is-cardiovascular-disease/coronary-artery-disease

14. Ramanathan, D., Huang, L., Wilson, T., & Boling, W. (2023). Molecular hydrogen therapy for neurological diseases: a review of current evidence. July–September 2023. Available: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9979207/

Read More...

Tocotrienols & Bone Strength! What is the Hidden Link?

People are always on the go these days, multitasking and all at once, right? 

When it comes to health, the most common thing you care about is maintaining your physique or losing weight. But then, out of nowhere, you are struck with unexpected back or joint pain. Why does this happen? It could be because you have overlooked a crucial aspect of your well-being, the foundation of everything you do, “your bone health.”

"You’re not getting enough calcium!"- You’ve probably heard this before. Yes, it is a standard so-called response when someone is experiencing joint or back pain. But what is the truth? Calcium is not the only important factor in bone health. 

Here, we will break this myth and explore Tocotrienols to keep your bones strong and healthy.

First things first:

What are 5 signs that indicate your bone health needs attention?

Your body often sends subtle signals when your bones need extra care. Here are 5 common signs that might suggest it’s time to pay attention to your bone health.

  1. Weak nails

Like bones, nails require essential nutrients. If bones become weakened, nails might become brittle and break more easily.

  1. Difficulty in opening the mouth

If you feel stress when opening your mouth, it may mean your jawbone is losing strength, which can lead to loss of bone mineral density in your spine. Consult your dentist for guidance, especially if you have X-rays. 

  1. Muscle cramps and joint pain

Experiencing unexplained aches, cramps, or joint pain might be a sign that your bones are weaker than they should be.

  1. Skin sagging

Yes, “the elevens” on your foreheads indicate other tissues that are not visible to the naked eye. Since skin and bones share the same protein, collagen, changes that affect skin elasticity can also impact bone health.

  1. Reduced lean body mass

It can be due to chronic inflammation. Chronic inflammation can negatively affect the bone remodeling cycle, a continuous process in which new bone replaces old or damaged bone tissue. This leads to an increase in bone resorption, the process of breaking down bone, and a decrease in bone formation.

What is the Bone Remodelling Cycle? 

The bone remodeling cycle is a natural cyclic process in which old bone is removed and new bone is formed. Special cells called osteoclasts break down and remove an area of old bone, while osteoblasts replace it by building new bone tissue. 

According to a study, the body replaces about 25% of spongy bone and 3% of hard bone each year to maintain bone health. However, if the body loses more bone than it replaces, bones can weaken and become more prone to fractures. As you age, this balance shifts, causing a gradual loss of bone density over time.

Now that you're aware of common signs of bone issues, you might have heard the typical advice to take calcium. While calcium is important, other natural nutrients, like tocotrienol (50 times more potent form of vitamin E), are also crucial—let's explore this in the next section.

While Calcium is Important, It’s Not the Only Hero!

You all know that calcium plays a crucial role in maintaining your body's bone health, and it's very important to include it in your diet.

But did you know that there's an “unsung hero” who can also play a crucial role in supporting strong, healthy bones?

Drumroll… “Tocotrienols”!! How? Let’s find out!

Here are the 4 top benefits of Tocotrienol for your bone health.

1. Acts as an Antioxidant - Like a Shield 

Did you know that harmful molecules called reactive oxygen species (ROS) can cause oxidative stress? 

Oxidative stress can lead to weakened bones and contribute to a condition called osteoporosis, which is the weakening of bones. When the body’s natural defense system struggles to fight these molecules,  bone loss increases.

How Tocotrienols help:

  • In a study, researchers found that delta-tocotrienol can help keep bones healthy by reducing harmful reactive oxygen species and enhancing the body’s natural antioxidant defense mechanism. 

2. As an Anti-Inflammatory Agent- Fights Inflammation 

Harmful substances like nicotine and iron overload can trigger inflammation, leading to increased activity of bone-breaking cells (osteoclasts) and eventual bone loss.

How Tocotrienols help: 

  • Tocotrienol can help lower inflammation by reducing the levels of inflammatory molecules such as interleukin-1 and interleukin-6. 

  • Additionally, research has shown that alpha-tocotrienol specifically blocks the signals that instruct the body to produce more osteoclasts, which means it helps slow down bone loss by preventing excessive breakdown of bone tissue. 

3. Inhibitor of osteoclast activity - As a Halt 

Aging affects the proliferation and activity of osteoclasts, leading to increased bone destruction, which can result in weakened bones as you age.

How Tocotrienols help: 

  • In a study, researchers found that a form of tocotrienol was effective in reducing bone loss by inhibiting the formation and activity of osteoclasts. 

  • It was found to effectively block key signaling pathways, including RANKL, c-Fos, ERK, NF-κB, and NFATc1. These signals are essential for osteoclast formation, a process that involves breaking down bone tissue and resorbing it. 

  • It means that signals leading to bone breakdown will be inhibited, while signals promoting bone formation will be enhanced.

4. Regulation of Collagen Synthesis– Like a Support Beam

Loss of collagen in skin and bones with aging contributes to decreased bone density in senile osteoporosis. Tocotrienols play a beneficial role in regulating collagen synthesis, which indirectly supports bone strength.

How Tocotrienols Help: 

  • A study examined how annatto-derived tocotrienol (AnTT) affects bone formation in pre-osteoblastic cells, which are crucial for bone creation.

  • Tocotrienol may enhance the expression of key bone formation-related genes (OSX, COL1α1, ALP, OCN) over time, particularly from day 3 to day 21.

  • Tocotrienol-treated cells produced more collagen, with a significant increase in type 1 collagen from day 3 to day 15.

Overall, the study demonstrated that tocotrienols actively support bone formation by boosting collagen production and enhancing bone-building processes.

An Extra Benefit of Tocotrienols!

Telomere length is often used to track how quickly your cells, including those in your bones, are aging. A study found that low doses of gamma-tocotrienol can protect cells from aging caused by oxidative stress. It may also help maintain healthy telomere length—something that could support better bone health as you age.

Also read How Tocotrienol-Rich Vitamin E Revolutionizes Healthy Aging?

Note: Tocotrienols for bone health need a more conclusive study. Do not take it as a replacement for your treatment.

Conclusion : 

Many of you overlook your bone health until the pain emerges. Your bones do require continuous care, and there’s more to strengthening them than you might realize. While you often focus on external signs like joint pain or brittle nails, these are just surface indicators of deeper changes happening within. We have discussed tocotrienols, a potent form of Vitamin E, and how it can help improve bone health in some indirect ways, such as fighting oxidative stress, reducing inflammation, and supporting bone remodeling. 

Taking a holistic approach to bone health means looking beyond conventional solutions and embracing nutrients that work at a deeper level. Incorporating tocotrienols into your diet could be a step toward stronger, healthier bones. However, it’s always important to consult a healthcare professional before adding any new supplement to your regimen. 

Disclaimer: These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. The supplements mentioned above are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. The results are based only on early research and preliminary studies.

FAQs 

Q1. Who should not take tocotrienols? 

People with conditions like diabetes, liver disease, or alcohol dependence should consult their doctor before taking tocotrienols.

Q2. What are the sources of tocotrienols for bone health? 

Sources of Tocotrienols for bone health include Rice bran oil, Palm oil, Barley, Oats, and Annatto seeds (rich in Delta-tocotrienol, the most bioactive form).

Q3. Can you take tocotrienols every day? 

Typically, tocotrienols can be taken by adults in doses ranging from 200 to 600 mg daily. It's essential to consult a healthcare provider to determine the appropriate dosage for your specific needs or condition. 

Q4. What are people saying about the side effects of tocotrienols?

Tocotrienols are considered safe, but it’s always best to speak with your doctor before starting a new supplement.

Q5. Is it true that tocotrienols can protect against osteoporosis?

Research indicates that tocotrienol can help increase bone density and decrease bone loss, making it a potential protective agent against osteoporosis.

References 

1. Chin, K.-Y. and Ima-Nirwana, S. (2015) The biological effects of Tocotrienol on bone: A review on evidence fr: DDDT, Drug Design, Development and Therapy. Available at: https://www.dovepress.com/the-biological-effects-of-tocotrienol-on-bone-a-review-on-evidence-fro-peer-reviewed-fulltext-article-DDDT (Accessed: 18 April 2025).

2. Zhang, L. et al. (2024) Consequences of aging on Bone, Aging and disease. Available at: https://www.aginganddisease.org/EN/10.14336/AD.2023.1115 (Accessed: 18 April 2025). 

3. Wan Hasan, W.N. et al. (2018) Annatto-derived tocotrienol stimulates osteogenic activity in preosteoblastic MC3T3-E1 cells: A temporal sequential study, Drug design, development and therapy. Available at: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC6005313/ (Accessed: 18 April 2025). 

4. Makpol, S. et al. (2010) Gamma-tocotrienol prevents oxidative stress-induced telomere shortening in human fibroblasts derived from different aged individuals, Oxidative medicine and cellular longevity. Available at: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC2835887/ (Accessed: 18 April 2025).

Read More...

Do Nutrients Like CoQ10 & Tocotrienols Support Liver Health Naturally?

A healthy liver plays a vital role in maintaining regular bowel movements and preventing constipation. But what happens when the liver is compromised? 

The expected answer is that you may need to steer clear of your favorite sugary, salty, and creamy beverages, as a weakened liver struggles to process them effectively, which can lead to potential health issues.

To understand the situation today, let’s take you back to the good old times. In the past, your ancestors lived without modern technology or convenient transportation. They walked long distances to get essentials like water and engaged in physically demanding activities, such as farming. The carbohydrates they consumed were efficiently burned as energy, and food scarcity often prevented overeating.

Fast forward to today: technology has made life easier, and you are just a click away from satisfying your taste buds. However, physical activity has decreased significantly, leaving you with a lifestyle of overeating while burning fewer calories. So, where do those extra calories go? They accumulate in the liver as fat, contributing to the rising prevalence of liver-related issues.

According to a 2021 review, the incidence of nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) is expected to rise by up to 56% over the next decade. Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is already the fastest-growing cause of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) in the USA, France, and the UK. By 2040, over half of the adult population is projected to have non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD).

So, is there a solution? Yes, there is. Let's explore the 2 options!"

One simple mantra is: Eat according to your calorie requirements. Burn calories by engaging in physical activity so they don't accumulate in your liver.

The second option is: Eat a healthy diet and supplement it with natural ingredients like CoQ10 and tocotrienols with professional help.

So, let's dive into the second option: Supporting Liver Health Naturally with CoQ10 and Tocotrienols.

What are CoQ10 & Tocotrienols?

CoQ10, or ubiquinone, is a naturally occurring antioxidant found in your body (particularly in the mitochondria of cells). It plays a significant role in producing adenosine triphosphate (ATP), which is essential for cellular energy transfer. However, due to an unhealthy lifestyle (lack of nutrients) or the aging process, ubiquinone levels tend to decline in the body. 

Tocotrienol is a form of vitamin E that is different from tocopherols (another form of vitamin E) due to its unique molecular structure and penetration into the cell walls.

CoQ10 and tocotrienols have been studied for their role in maintaining cellular and liver health, as well as energy production. Let's see how they can help support liver health.

How can CoQ10 promote liver health?

Coenzyme Q10 has been studied for its potential to promote liver health through several multifactorial mechanisms. 

  • It may help protect liver cells from damage caused by harmful molecules, like free radicals, that attack fats in the body. 

  • It may help improve liver enzymes, such as alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), and gamma-glutamyltransferase (GGT). Their optimal level can be a sign of a healthy liver.

  • Coenzyme Q10 has been linked to reduced systemic inflammation, suggesting a potential contribution to a healthy liver.

  • It helps the mitochondrial electron transport chain produce ATP, as the liver is a high-energy-requiring organ with numerous metabolic functions.

Also read Unlock the CoQ10 Benefits for Women: What You Need to Know.

Let's explore an example of the study supporting CoQ10 for its potential liver benefits.

CoQ10 supplementation on liver enzymes: A systematic review and meta‐analysis of randomized studies

What did they do?

  • Investigated how Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10), a strong antioxidant, affects liver function enzymes.

  • Conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis of 13 randomized clinical trials (RCTs).

  • Focused on key liver enzymes: ALT, AST, GGT, and alkaline phosphatase.

What did they find?

CoQ10 Supplementation Results:

  • ALT: Reduced by 5.33 IU/L (p = .04).

  • AST: Reduced by 4.91 IU/L (p = .03).

  • GGT: Reduced by 8.07 IU/L (p = .001).

  • Alkaline Phosphatase: No significant changes (p = .76).

What did they conclude?

CoQ10 has the potential to improve ALT, AST, and GGT levels, indicating supportive benefits for liver function.

Note: Further studies with longer durations and larger participant groups are needed to confirm this.

Like CoQ10, natural ingredient such as tocotrienol also supports liver health—let’s explore how in the next section.

How can Tocotrienol promote liver health?

Tocotrienol has been studied to promote liver health through the following mechanism of action: 

  • It may improve lipid metabolism, allowing for the avoidance of liver steatosis, inflammation, and fibrosis. 

  • It has been shown to suppress inflammatory mediators, including TNF-α and NF-κB, which are believed to play a role in NAFLD (non-alcoholic fatty liver disease).

  • It may help combat oxidative stress associated with liver diseases.

  • It improves End-Stage Liver Disease Scores (MELD). The highest scores on the MELD scale, which ranges from 6 to 40, indicate the worst liver function and the greatest need for a transplant.

Let’s look at a study that highlights the potential benefits of tocotrienol for liver health.

Potential Role of Tocotrienol (T3) in Management of NAFLD: A Systematic Review (Chin Kok-Yong et al. 2023)

What Did They Do?

Conducted a systematic review to evaluate the effects of tocotrienol on NAFLD.

What Did They Find?

  • Effects of T3 Supplementation: The study found improved non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) outcomes, including liver histology, ultrasound results, and liver enzyme profiles.

  • They found that enhanced lipid metabolism and reduced fat accumulation in the liver, lowered mitochondrial and endoplasmic reticulum stress, and reduced inflammation and liver fibrosis could be the potential mechanisms behind the improvement.

What did they conclude?? T3 has been shown to be a potential agent for managing liver conditions like NAFLD in the future.

Note: Further comprehensive studies in humans and preclinical settings are needed to confirm its efficacy.

Conclusion

 It's important to incorporate habits that support liver health. Yes, we at Wellness Extract also understand that sometimes indulging in a guilty pleasure is also essential. So, we encourage you to take a middle path, with the help of a healthcare professional, and create a lifestyle routine that allows you to maintain healthy habits, including a sustainable diet with essential nutrients, and occasionally enjoy your favorite indulgence. 

Disclaimer: These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA. This content is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.

References:

  1. R;, H.D.-S.H. (no date) Global epidemiology of NAFLD-related HCC: Trends, predictions, risk factors and prevention, Nature reviews. Gastroenterology & hepatology. Available at: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33349658/#:~:text=The%20incidence%20of%20nonalcoholic%20steatohepatitis,to%20tackle%20this%20growing%20problem (Accessed: 18 April 2025).

  2. Le, M.H. et al. (2022) Forecasted 2040 global prevalence of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease using hierarchical bayesian approach, Clinical and molecular hepatology. Available at: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9597215/ (Accessed: 18 April 2025). 

  3. Le, M.H. et al. (2022) Forecasted 2040 global prevalence of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease using hierarchical bayesian approach, Clinical and molecular hepatology. Available at: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9597215/ (Accessed: 18 April 2025). 

  4. Farsi, F. et al. (2021a) Effects of coenzyme Q10 on health-related quality of life, clinical disease activity and blood pressure in patients with mild to moderate ulcerative colitis: A randomized clinical trial, Medical journal of the Islamic Republic of Iran. Available at: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC8111632/ (Accessed: 18 April 2025). 

  5. Chin, K.-Y. et al. (2023) Tocotrienol in the management of nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease: A systematic review, Nutrients. Available at: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9965814/ (Accessed: 18 April 2025). 

Read More...
Explore Categories

Wellness