You’re lethargic, get headaches at work, and find yourself tired and craving water. You may be experiencing symptoms of general fatigue, anxiety, or something else, but there are ways to get a fast burst of energy – namely, vitamin IV therapy. It may help you feel better, quicker than other treatments.
What is IV Vitamin Therapy?
Intravenous (IV) therapy is a delivery system that dispenses hydration, medicines, and, more recently, nutrients directly into someone’s vein. It happens when you’re hooked to an IV drip for mostly non-critical health benefits and as, some would say, a holistic treatment. IV vitamin therapy comprises a specific blend of antioxidants, vitamins, and electrolytes. The catheter, or line, is inserted into a vein in your arm or hand, and the procedure may take about an hour.
Types of conditions that benefit
People who need quick hydration may be prime candidates for IV vitamin therapy. Still, the procedure is gaining popularity for helping to foster better health and live a more balanced lifestyle. Research into its efficacy is ongoing, but many people use it to treat a variety of health-related issues, including:
- Asthma. Certain vitamins, when dispensed via IV, may significantly improve respiratory function and reduce the need for hospitalization in certain people.
- Inflammation. IV vitamin therapy may help to lower high C-reactive protein levels, an inflammation marker.
- Certain vitamins dispensed via IV may also lower someone’s fatigue level.
Elite athletes, of course, swear by IV vitamin therapy, but it’s not just for rehydration following intense physical activity. The procedure may work for someone concerned about low energy, chronic pain relief, getting rid of a hangover, better immune system support, reducing cold and flu symptoms, and recovering faster from headaches or migraines.
Is there any danger?
IV vitamin therapy is primarily safe, with few side effects. However, side effects may happen because of antiseptic conditions or allergic reactions to some of the infusion ingredients. That’s why whoever administers the treatment should be aware of any allergies you may have before starting the procedure. Your skin may temporarily flush around your head, neck, and chest, and there may be visible but short-term redness or tenderness around the injection site.
Types of IV Vitamin Therapy
Many people interested in IV vitamin therapy invariably ask about the ingredients of the infusion liquid. Substances typically found in IV vitamin therapy may include the following:
- Vitamin C – Studies have uncovered evidence of many benefits of IV vitamin C therapy. In some instances, it may help manage sepsis and cancer treatment, as well as boost immunity and energy levels for people who aren’t sick.
- Vitamin B complex and others in the group, including vitamin B1 (thiamine), vitamin B2 (riboflavin), vitamin B3 (niacinamide), vitamin B5 (dexpanthenol), and pyridoxine (vitamin B6). These vitamins are essential players in the function of hundreds of biological processes in the human body.
- Vitamin B12, which also is known as cyanocobalamin. Another of many multi-functional vitamins, this one’s primary function is creating red blood cells. “Red blood cells are responsible for transporting oxygen from your lungs to your body’s tissues. Your tissues produce energy with the oxygen and release a waste, identified as carbon dioxide.”
- Folic acid, which is also known as folate. Folic acid is similar to cyanocobalamin because it helps create red blood cells.
- Everybody needs calcium. It’s one of the cornerstones for developing healthy and strong bones. Your heart, nerves, and muscles also require calcium to work properly. Some research proposes that calcium, plus vitamin D, may offer benefits apart from bone health – maybe as a defense against cancer, diabetes, and elevated blood pressure.
- Glutathione, is another antioxidant important for numerous processes in the human body.
Are there alternatives?
There are many alternatives to IV vitamin therapy. Some people have had success with ketamine therapy in treating low energy, anxiety, depression, and other conditions, while others loom for getting more vitamins and nutrients into their bodies naturally. This, of course, means adopting a healthy lifestyle – eating right, getting enough sleep, exercising regularly, and limiting caffeine and nicotine use. Try these vitamin-rich foods:
- Vitamin C: Red peppers, oranges, broccoli, strawberries, cabbage, potatoes, tomatoes.
- Vitamin B: Salmon, leafy greens, liver, eggs, milk, legumes, whole grains, meat, nuts.
- Vitamin D: Trout, salmon, tuna, mushrooms, beef, pork, chicken, turkey, and certain fortified foods.
Final thoughts
There are many kinds of IV vitamin therapy that you may benefit from, but if you’re having a discussion with your healthcare provider about ways to combat low energy, fatigue, and anxiety, ask whether ketamine therapy is a possible alternative. Leading a healthier lifestyle may be easier than you thought.
