Hydrogen can modulate the activity of microbial communities, promoting a balanced microbiome. Dysbiosis, which disrupts H₂ metabolism, has also been linked to inflammatory bowel diseases such as colitis, where alterations in hydrogenase enzyme activity impair microbial composition and gut health. Beyond this, H₂ also increases the production of short-chain fatty acids, the primary energy source for colonocytes. This has been shown to protect the intestinal wall and reduce the occurrence of “leaky gut” (gaps in the intestinal lining through which bacteria can escape and inflammatory cells can enter). Gastro-supportive effects impact the gut microbiome, promoting gut health and minimizing or correcting dysbiosis—regardless of how the hydrogen is ingested.