How to Make Hydrogen Water: Easy Methods You Can Try at Home

Biohackers, athletes, scientists, and now even commoners are talking about hydrogen-rich water! What makes hydrogen water unique?  

Hydrogen water is regular drinking water with extra molecular hydrogen (H2) dissolved in it. The best part? You can even make hydrogen water at home. 

However, remember that not all hydrogen water-generating methods are equal.  

In this guide, we will explore common methods for making hydrogen water at home. We’ll also compare the pros, cons, safety, and effectiveness so that you can make an informed decision. 

How to Make Hydrogen Water at Home: Safe Methods 

Unlike traditional antioxidants, H2 is a selective antioxidant, neutralizing harmful reactive oxygen species (ROS) without affecting the beneficial ones. From molecular hydrogen tablets to ionizers, there are multiple ways you can get hydrogen water. Here are the common ways you can make hydrogen-infused water at home. The methods mentioned are 100% safe and effective for human consumption. Every person, regardless of age or knowledge, can use these techniques. 

As the term suggests, open-cup hydrogen tablets mean that water isn't sealed or capped during the process. Also known as molecular hydrogen tablets, it is an effective and convenient way to turn regular water into hydrogen. 

This innovative technology contains ingredients like magnesium that react with water to produce hydrogen gas.  

It can produce up to 10 ppm of hydrogen (mg/L) per 500 mL, surpassing all other hydrogen water-making technologies. 

Drop a pharmaceutical-grade molecular hydrogen tablet containing magnesium into a cup of water. Wait for the effervescent reaction that releases hydrogen gas. 

Mg + 2H2O → Mg (OH)2 + H2 

The bright side is that, unlike other methods, open-cup hydrogen tablets don't require special instruments to store hydrogen-rich water. However, it is important to consume water prepared within 30 minutes before hydrogen gas escapes from the solution. 

Hydrogen water ionizers work on electrolysis. These machines come in different sizes and produce hydrogen gas in water. You can either fit it directly into the water source or carry a compact hydrogen water bottle. 

These devices work on simple electrolysis principles. Electrolysis uses electricity to break down water into oxygen and hydrogen (H2) gas. Later, the hydrogen gas is dissolved in water, producing a hydrogen-rich solution. 

2H₂O(l) → 2H₂(g) + O₂(g)  

A hydrogen water ionizer works well when regularly maintained or combined. However, it has certain disadvantages. It is expensive and can produce only 0.1-1 ppm H₂. 

Due to calcification on the plate, the machine's efficiency reduces over time. Additionally, alkaline hydrogen water ionizers may raise pH to harmful levels near 12, causing oral tissue irritation. 

The above two methods are safe and effective for producing hydrogen-infused water. However, there are some risky methods that you must avoid trying at home, particularly. 

Also Read: Is Hydrogen Water Safe for Kidneys 

Unsafe Methods for Producing Hydrogen-rich Water 

Here is the list of unsafe and uncertified methods of producing hydrogen water that a few individuals try at home, but no one should. 

The process involves using magnesium rods or sticks in acidic water. To be precise, it is the unrefined version of magnesium-based hydrogen tablets. 

Risk Involved: Magnesium rods are not GRAS-approved and may also contain contaminants. Additionally, it may lead to hypermagnesemia or even a medical emergency. 

It is a laboratory production method that is safe only for trained professionals. Here, pure hydrogen gas is bubbled into water using a diffuser. 

Risk Involved: H2 is an inflammable gas. Therefore, there is always a risk of explosion, particularly in enclosed spaces. 

A few Japanese models use aluminum or reactive cartridges that slowly infuse hydrogen into water. 

Risk Involved: The major concern is about aluminum safety and potential leaching. Moreover, the process is slow and takes several hours, even in sealed containers. 

Read More: 10 Hydrogen Water Benefits That Your Skin Will Love 

A Quick Comparison Between All the Methods