The effects of hydrogen-rich water on male fertility and spermatogenesis

Infertility is a significant health issue affecting the population globally, especially in the low- and middle-income countries. Molecular hydrogen (H2) has therapeutic effects that include the ability to pass through the cellular membrane and act as an anti-inflammatory agent. Molecular hydrogen interventions, including inhalation or ingestion of hydrogen-enriched water (HRW), have shown the possible health benefits of hydrogen on human health and reproductive function. Nevertheless, the exact ways in which HRW has an effect on male fertility have not been established. The proposed review will explain the biological processes underlying how HRW can potentially impact male fertility and spermatogenesis. An extensive literature search was conducted to find studies that examined the impact of HRW on oxidative stress, inflammation, and spermatogenesis in animal models and human studies. It has been shown that hydrogen-enriched treatments enhance the balance between oxidants and antioxidants and have anti-inflammatory effects that can be potentially beneficial in reproductive health support. Molecular hydrogen has the potential to prevent infertility caused by oxidative stress through selective scavenging of highly reactive oxidants. Also, HRW has the potential to decrease the factor of inflammation related to testicular damage and spermatogenesis disturbance. Molecular hydrogen enhances oxidative balance and has anti-inflammatory effects, which have the potential to promote spermatogenesis. The results highlight the importance of more mechanistic and clinical investigations to clarify in detail the therapeutic potential of HRW in the management of male infertility and enhancement of reproductive outcomes.