We all have one main goal in mind. Be healthy. But sometimes our physical development, and the journey we go through in order to alleviate the post-effects of our busy lifestyle, requires us to take measures and invest in external supplements that can give our bodies the aid necessary for the continuation of daily activities. By now, you have probably heard about Hydrogen water tablets. The science behind them is quite simple, but the claims, from the biohacking community about this “supplement” are quite something else.

Hydrogen-rich water is just simple H2O that has been infused with another molecule of hydrogen gas. Hydrogen, when inside the human body, acts as a therapeutic antioxidant that can neutralise free radicals, without disrupting the metabolic reactive oxygen species we need for the continuation of our body’s internal processes. Hydrogen can penetrate cell membranes and it has been scientifically shown to reduce inflammation, with research on it as a potential adjuvant for cancer treatments currently ongoing.

Now, is hydrogen-rich water a miraculous new supplement that can cure anything from the most aggressive forms of cancer to the common cold? No. But since it contains the same nutritional formula as water, hydrogen water tablets in Australia are perfectly safe to use, and there is evidence out there that they actually do have a slight antioxidant effect and lower inflammatory markers.  Not by a lot, mind you. But enough so to say that it’s actually working.

What Are the Claims?

Well, they are endless. But rather than focusing on the claims, how about we mostly talk about the actual proven benefits? Commercially available hydrogen water tablets in Australia can reduce oxidative stress, which is often linked with the appearance of chronic diseases, disorders of the digestive system and premature aging. Hydrogen, as an antioxidant, makes sense, and when present in water, it can be easily ingested in a safe and controlled manner.

There are studies out there that also showcase the effect of hydrogen water tablets as an anti-inflammatory agent, while others swear by the effects of hydrogen-rich water for post-workout fatigue.  In fact, in a study conducted by Kaixiang Zhou, Chaoqun Yuan, Zhangyuting Shang, Wenhui Jiao and Yubo Wang, which was published in “Frontiers in Physiology”, the authors concluded that eight days of intermittent hydrogen-rich water could significantly improve muscular endurance performance in already-trained individuals.

Me, personally? I felt some effects, but they were quite mild. I took hydrogen-rich water for around three weeks in the summer of 2025, as I was preparing for my first half-marathon. I have to say, for the time I took the hydrogen tablets, my VO2 max increased from 44.3 to 45.7, which might not seem like a lot, but it was enough for me to be noticeable. Was it related to the hydrogen tablets? I can’t say for sure. But I did feel excellent while taking them.

Research Is Still Ongoing

There is a lot of hype and ambiguity about hydrogen-rich water right now. Yes, some of its proponents take things a bit too far and attribute to these tablets properties that are simply improbable. However, with all that being said, they do seem to work for a lot of people, and research, while still in its infancy, is quite promising. Hydrogen-rich water, since it has proven antioxidant properties can potentially improve cholesterol levels, have a positive effect on blood sugar markers and also aid liver function.

In fact, it’s even currently looked at as a supplement for mood regulation. More research is still needed, of course. But the hydrogen tablets found in Australia are promising. And most important of all, they are perfectly safe to use. In fact, right now, hydrogen-rich water is touted as being one of the safest performance boosters available to athletes. The effects are subtle, yes. But it’s perfectly legal and there are pretty much no reported side effects. It’s just water with a bit more hydrogen in it after all.

A Low-Risk Wellness Supplement

Hydrogen-rich water doesn’t have the in-your-face instant effects of other supplements. Are you exhausted after exercise? Then, hydrogen tablets will not immediately take your pain away. However, they can help with recovery, make the intensity of the post-workout soreness a bit more manageable, and aid with the preservation of your energy levels.

Hydrogen tablets are less important than a proper diet, sleep, or hydration. But they do work, and a lot of people swear by them. Am I one of them? Sort of. I don’t think they are a cure for every single chronic ailment laid out there, but I do think they actually helped me out for the short time I tried them out. Ultimately, they are perfectly safe. So, why wouldn’t you give them a go as well?

Who Should Take Hydrogen Tablets in Australia?

Well, pretty much anyone can take them. They’re safe, widely available, cheap, and there are no real contraindications right now for their usage. Sure, it’s better to check with your doctor if you are pregnant or you are dealing with a chronic disease, but for the most part, taking hydrogen-rich water, regardless of the circumstances, should be perfectly fine. Now, as for who really needs it, that’s a bit trickier to answer.

The effects of hydrogen-rich water are more subtle than those of other supplements. It’s not like with electrolytes, which you will notice in a couple of minutes (if you are really dehydrated). Hydrogen-rich water doesn’t have a dramatic effect on the body. But it can help with oxidative stress after training, aid with recovery, and reduce muscle fatigue. So, what should be the primary category that makes use of it? I will say, athletes.

Plus, since oxidative stress and inflammation are also associated with chronic stress, hydrogen tablets are also useful for people working in highly demanding environments, and for those people with metabolic and inflammatory ailments. I, for example, suffer from ulcerative colitis. So, I am considering taking hydrogen tablets, long-term, as an adjuvant to my mesalazine tablets. Why not, after all?