From Myer’s cocktail to intravenous vitamin C therapy, here’s a look at some of the IV therapies available and how they work.
We live in times when environmental pollutants, stress, poor diet, nutrient-depleted soil, and overuse of medications lead to low energy levels and chronic health conditions. In this scenario, IV therapy is gaining popularity as a preventative and therapeutic treatment for many health conditions. IV therapy is seen as an effective way to replenish nutrients, support metabolic processes, optimize health, and improve existing health conditions.
IV Therapy: Simplified
Intravenous (IV) nutrient therapy is an infusion of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that are delivered directly into the bloodstream. As the procedure bypasses the digestive system, higher concentrations of nutrients are delivered directly to the cells. These nutrients are then used by our cells to increase energy production, help metabolism, enable detoxification, and support the repair and healing processes of the body. The therapeutic benefits of IV therapy far exceed the effects of oral supplementation.
What conditions do IV Therapy treat?
IV therapy can help several health conditions including adrenal fatigue, burnout and chronic stress, chronic fatigue, detoxification, fibromyalgia, headaches/migraine, poor immune function, athletic support – rehydration and recovery, acute or chronic infections (colds/flu), Crohns/colitis/mal-absorption issues, PMS & hormone imbalances, anxiety and depression, weight loss & metabolism, and allergies.
What does the IV contain?
IV therapy can deliver vitamin C, B vitamins, magnesium, and calcium. IV infusions are also customized according to individual needs and as recommended by your naturopathic doctornaturopathic doctor. Additional nutrients are added based on the patient’s condition.
Oral v/s IV: What’s the difference?
When we take vitamin supplements orally, they are absorbed into the body in the small intestine. Absorption is impacted by factors such as stress, chronic disease, and gut inflammation. IV therapy bypasses the whole digestive and absorption process and delivers nutrients directly to the cells of the body via the bloodstream. It results in quicker results compared to oral supplementation.
How safe is IV therapy?
Overall, IV therapy is safe, and is generally well tolerated by most patients. Before the therapy, a detailed health history is needed to check whether IV therapy is appropriate for each individual. IV therapy makes use of sterile equipment and materials to reduce any risk of infection. IV therapy can result in local swelling, bruising or irritation of a vein. It’s important to have your naturopathic doctor monitoring you through the treatment.
Here’s a look at some of the different naturopathic IV therapies…
Myers’ cocktail (vitamin and mineral formula)
It is named after Dr John Myers who did considerable pioneering work in utilising IV delivery for vitamins and minerals. He developed a mix of vitamins and minerals which has become a standard of IV therapy delivery of vitamins and minerals. A vitamin-mineral formula administered intravenously, it contains low-dose vitamin C, a selection of B-vitamins including B2, B3, B5, B6, and B12, as well as calcium and magnesium. The Myers cocktail is used to improve nutritional status, boost energy and immune function, speed up recovery from cold or flu, and also treat conditions such as migraine, fibromyalgia, and chronic fatigue.
Intravenous vitamin C therapy
Vitamin C therapy helps with wound healing, general health, immune function, and weight loss management. High dose intravenous vitamin C is used in naturopathic cancer care. At high concentrations, vitamin C acts as a pro-oxidant. It has been shown to preferentially kill cancer cells. It can help reduce side effects from chemotherapy while improving treatment outcomes. It supports immune function, may help reduce tumour size, and also improve patients’ quality of life.
Glutathione
A naturally occurring antioxidant and cofactor for liver detoxification pathways, glutathione is a powerful antioxidant. It helps to protect cellular health, and enhances the metabolism of certain hormones and waste products. Glutathione is used to treat liver conditions and to enhance detoxification; neurodegenerative conditions such as Parkinson’s disease; conditions affecting the liver such as cirrhosis; and skin conditions related to hormone imbalances, such as acne in polycystic ovary syndrome or melasma.
Vitamin B12 injections
Vitamin B12 helps the body use fat and carbohydrates for energy and to make new protein. It is also essential for normal blood, cells, and nerves. While most people get enough vitamin B12 in their diet, a deficiency may result in health conditions such as poor nutrition, stomach/ intestinal problems, infection, and cancer. Serious vitamin B12 deficiency may result in anaemia, stomach problems, and nerve damage.
Mistletoe therapy
Specialised extract of mistletoe has been used for approximately 100 years in Germany in adjunctive cancer care. Mistletoe contains molecules called lectins and viscotoxins. These molecules bind receptors on immune cells and have potent immune stimulating as well as cytotoxic anticancer effects. Mistletoe has been shown to improve quality of life. It may slow disease progression and improve survival in patients with cancer.
Do speak to your naturopathic doctor for more information on how IV therapy may be of benefit to you personally.