Abstract
<jats:p>Background. The American Heart Association (AHA) introduced “Life’s Essential 8” as a comprehensive framework to promote cardiovascular health (CVH) and prevent cardiovascular diseases (CVDs). Despite this, the prevalence of optimal CVH remains low in most developed populations. Molecular hydrogen (H₂) has shown therapeutic potential in CVD, obesity, type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), and neuropsychological disorders, suggesting a possible integrative role in CVH promotion and disease prevention. Review of Data. The AHA’s 8 components include healthy diet, physical activity, nicotine avoidance, adequate sleep, optimal body weight, and regulation of blood lipids and glucose, as well as blood pressure. Accumulating evidence indicates that H₂ may beneficially modulate most of these domains. In a randomized controlled trial involving 60 patients with metabolic syndrome, hydrogen-rich water (HRW) significantly reduced body mass index (BMI), blood lipids, glucose, and HbA1c, and improved inflammatory and redox biomarkers compared to placebo. Additional studies suggest that H₂ can lower blood pressure and its variability, enhance physical performance, and favorably modulate gut microbiota, including increased production of short-chain fatty acids. Hydrogen therapy, administered as H₂-rich water or H₂–O2 inhalation, has also been associated with improved sleep quality, potentially through attenuation of oxidative stress and psychological distress. Overall, up to seven of the eight AHA CVH metrics may be influenced by H2 intervention. H₂ may function as a bioactive therapeutic agent and dietary adjunct that improves multiple determinants of CVH. Its integration into preventive and therapeutic strategies may facilitate attainment of AHA-defined CVH, particularly in populations at elevated risk of CVDs as well as pre-metabolic syndrome.</jats:p>