• The body cannot retain vitamin C. We must consume it daily through food or supplements to maintain optimal levels. 

• When administered intravenously, vitamin C is absorbed more quickly and in larger quantities than orally. 

• Vitamin C infusions are particularly beneficial to people at risk of vitamin C deficiency.

 

The health benefits of vitamin C are numerous. Many individuals obtain the vitamin from their diets, while many also use supplements to fill their needs. Another popular way of getting the vitamin is through infusions. When taken through this route, the vitamin enters the bloodstream immediately. 

What are the benefits of vitamin C infusions? Who uses vitamin C infusions? How much are vitamin C infusions? Read on to learn more. 

 

 

 

 

What is vitamin C?  

 

Vitamin C (ascorbic acid) is a water-soluble nutrient (i.e., dissolves in water). Since our body cannot store the vitamin, we must consume it daily through food or supplements to maintain a healthy level. A severe deficiency of vitamin C results in scurvy, a condition that causes bruising, bleeding gums, fatigue,  poor wound healing and joint pains.

The richest sources of vitamin C are vegetables and fruits such as citrus fruits (oranges, limes, lemons) strawberries, potatoes, tomatoes, peppers, brussel sprouts, broccoli, spinach and potatoes. A healthy diet usually provides adequate vitamin C for most individuals. However, vitamin C supplements given orally or intravenously benefit those at risk of vitamin C deficiency. 

Your age determines how much vitamin C you require daily. For people aged 19 and older, the recommended daily allowance is 90 mg for males and 75 mg for females. The maximum recommended daily consumption for vitamin C is 2000mg per day (this includes intake from food, drinks and supplements). Amounts greater than this  should  be used in controlled clinical studies or under close medical supervision.  

 

 

What are vitamin C infusions? 

 

Vitamin C infusions (or intravenous vitamin C)  are procedures where ascorbic acid is delivered directly into the bloodstream. Vitamin C  added to IV fluids is administered to the body using a long, thin tube connected to a needle put into a vein. A qualified medical expert is necessary to safely deliver vitamin C infusions.

When given intravenously, vitamin C completely avoids the digestive system. By doing this, it more quickly and readily reaches considerably greater levels in the blood than it would if the same quantity were taken orally. Vitamin C infusions are most beneficial when significant doses of vitamin C are required immediately. Speaking with a doctor is the best way to determine if IV vitamin C is appropriate for you. 

 

 

Benefits of vitamin C infusions

 

The following are some benefits of raising your vitamin C levels using infusions:

 

Better absorption of vitamin C 

 

Since vitamin C is given straight to the circulation, none of it is lost during digestion, allowing for better absorption of the vitamin. When taken orally, digestion breaks down the vitamin reducing the amount available to the body. Vitamin C infusions benefit people at risk of vitamin C deficiency and struggle to remember to take supplements every day. 

 

Supports the immune system 

 

According to research, vitamin C can boost the formation of white blood cells, which are necessary for the immune system to function at its best. Vitamin C taken as an infusion increases its ability to enhance white blood cell performance. 

 

Improves collagen production

 

Collagen is a protein that keeps the connective tissue that forms and supports your skin, teeth, bones, blood vessels, ligaments, and tendons together. Since vitamin C is necessary to produce collagen, taking it intravenously in large amounts is a fantastic approach to ensure your collagen levels are healthy. 

As a result, increased collagen production encourages quicker wound recovery and fewer wrinkles and fine lines, giving your skin a youthful glow. 

 

Reduces risk of chronic illness

 

Ascorbic acid is a powerful antioxidant able to raise blood antioxidant levels and fortify your body’s natural anti-inflammatory defenses. Antioxidants defend cells from dangerous chemicals known as free radicals. This may lower the chance of developing chronic illnesses such as heart disease.

 

Reduces symptoms of allergy

 

Vitamin C works as a natural antihistamine. Histamine is released by your body in reaction to an allergen or invader, which causes allergy symptoms. Though further studies are needed before they are authorized as an allergy therapy, vitamin C infusions can lessen allergy symptoms. 

One study found that vitamin C infusions reduced blood levels of histamine by around 50%, suggesting that they are more effective for this purpose than oral supplementation. 

 

Helps prevent iron deficiency

 

The production of red blood cells and oxygen delivery throughout the body requires iron. Iron from plant-based sources, which is difficult to absorb, can be transformed into an easier-to-absorb form with the help of vitamin C. This is especially helpful for vegetarians and vegans, as meat is a significant source of iron. 

 

Helps reduce stress

 

When under stress, blood pressure can rise to dangerously high levels. vitamin C helps control cortisol (our prime stress hormone) and prevents this from happening.

 

Who uses vitamin C infusions? 

 

The majority of people may safely and effectively use vitamin C infusions. You should speak with a doctor to ascertain whether vitamin C infusions are appropriate for you. The doctor will analyze your medical history to determine your risk of adverse effects or contraindications.

The FDA approves using vitamin C injections and infusions to treat vitamin C deficiency and severe wounds from burns or trauma. Though uncommon in developed countries, vitamin C deficiency is quite dangerous for those with the following health conditions. Therefore, they can benefit from vitamin C infusions:

• Alcoholism
• Eating disorders
• Smoking
• Problems with nutrient absorption 

More people are turning to vitamin C infusions to deal with various health issues that the FDA has not yet authorized. The following uses of vitamin C infusions are considered “off-label”:

 

Supplementary cancer treatment 

 

According to research, administering large doses of vitamin C intravenously in some cancer patients may help destroy cancer cells and lessen some of the harmful effects of chemotherapy. 

 

Supporting weight loss

 

Since those who are vitamin C deficient usually find it more challenging to lose fat, vitamin C infusion is occasionally used for weight reduction. However, there isn’t enough proof to say for sure that vitamin C induces weight reduction. 

 

Relief for chronic fatigue 

 

Because vitamin C is an invigorating antioxidant, people frequently use the IV infusion for chronic fatigue. This can lessen the effects of chronic tiredness and assist patients in carrying out daily duties more successfully.

 

Are vitamin C infusions safe?

 

Vitamin C infusions are often relatively safe and efficient. Clinical research has generally shown very few adverse side effects when vitamin C is administered by IV infusions. Some common side effects are:

• Bruising at the injection site
• Blood loss from the insertion 
• Infection at the point of insertion 
• Inflammation of the veins

Nevertheless, IV vitamin C may be detrimental for those with specific risk factors, such as:

• History of kidney disease or predisposition to kidney stones.
• A genetic lack of the enzyme necessary for red blood cells to function properly (G6PD deficiency).  
• A disorder that makes the body absorb and retain more iron than it requires (Hemochromatosis).
• Allergy to other materials in the infusion.

 

How much are vitamin C infusions? 

 

The specific cost of vitamin C infusions varies depending on the type of vitamins in the drip and the duration of the therapy. Given that various clinics have varying fees, the actual costs also depend on the treatment facility. A vitamin C IV procedure typically costs between $100 and $300 per treatment or session.

 

Summary 

 

 

 

Conclusion 

 

A diversified and balanced diet rich in fruits and vegetables often provides the vitamin C most individuals require. However, vitamin C infusions may be helpful for specific populations of people who are vitamin C deficient. Compared to oral vitamin C supplements, intravenous vitamin C enters the blood more quickly and in more significant quantities. 

Before receiving Vitamin C infusions, you should speak with a doctor . Physician evaluation is vital if you have a medical condition or are on medication.