An electrochemical cell that generates hydrogen has an anode including an electrochemically oxidizable substance and an electrode designed for hydrogen generation as a cathode and an aqueous alkaline electrolyte. The anode and the cathode are designed such that the hydrogen generation begins at the cathode as soon the anode and the cathode are electrically connected to one another. At least one resistance foil is adhesively bonded to at least one outer side of the housing which, when it is connected as a load resistance between the anode and the cathode, reduces the current flow between the anode and the cathode and therefore also the gas generation rate.