Molecular hydrogen positively affected post-exercise recovery

In Exercise, Human studies by CHESS

Molecular hydrogen (H2) recently appeared as a novel and safe ergogenic agent that might have beneficial effects in athletes. However, no information is available concerning the impact of H2 on post-exercise recovery indices. The purpose of this study was to determine the effects of pre-exercise H2 administration on post-exercise heart rate and blood lactate responses in judo athletes. Five athletes (24.4 ± 3.4 yrs, 74.8 ± 2.3 kg, 177.8 ± 2.5 cm) were recruited for this randomized, placebo-controlled, double-blind crossover pilot study. Participants were instructed to ingest formulation containing 6.4 g of H2 or placebo ~ 30 minutes before repeated Special Judo Fitness Test (RSJFT). Blood lactates and heart rates were recorded during recovery period at 3 min, 5 min and 15 min, and 10 s, 20 s, 30 s, 60 s, 3 min and 15 min, respectively. Molecular hydrogen significantly blunted lactate response during recovery period as compared to the placebo (7.23 ± 1.95 vs 9.22 ± 1.51 mmol/L; P = 0.011). Furthermore, a trend has been found for decreased post-exercise heart rate in group supplemented with H2 (P = 0.111). Hydrogen-rich water appears to be an appropriate strategy to positively affect post-exercise lactates in judo athletes.

Drid P, Stojanovic MD, Trivic T, Ostojic SM. Molecular hydrogen affected post-exercise recovery in judo athletes. Med Sci Sports Exerc. 2016 May;48(5 Suppl 1):1071.

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