For most people, a healthy immune system has always been equated to their family genes and living the right way – eating healthy foods, staying away from alcohol, and getting regular exercise. But not everyone is fortunate enough and may require other methods to boost their immune system. One such method is IV vitamin therapy.
What Is IV Vitamin Therapy?
IV vitamin therapy is a process whereby a liquid mixture of saline, vitamins, and nutrients is dispensed into your body intravenously. In this case, a needle that has been inserted into a vein in your arm is attached to a rubberized tube connected to a drip bag containing the IV vitamin mix. The advantage of getting vitamins into your system this way to boost your immune system is that it bypasses the digestive process and immediately enters your bloodstream.
What Is The Immune System?
We hear a lot of talk about the immune system, but what is it, really? Everyone has one, and it contains three components that help protect us from infection, colds, feeling run down, and many other maladies people don’t often think of. It’s a vast, highway-like network of cells, organs, and tissues that protect us from infections and other diseases.
When germs like bacteria or viruses enter your body, they attack and reproduce, leading to an infection. It’s because of infections that people get sick or begin to feel symptoms warning you of illness. Think of your immune system as a cellular army, fighting off invading germs.
IV vitamin therapy, as well as healthy living, may be able to strengthen and protect the three kinds of immunity we all have:
- Innate immunity is the defense that you’re born with. It’s your body’s original guardian and includes barricades like your skin and mucous membranes. It also can go on the offensive, activating cells and chemicals to attack foreign substance invaders – all with the goal of keeping bad things out of your body.
- Active immunity develops when you’re infected with or inoculated against a foreign element. It’s normally long-lasting and, for many diseases, may be life-long.
- Passive immunity is derived when you get antibodies to a disease rather than creating them through your natural immune system. Newborn babies, for instance, receive antibodies from their moms. You can also derive “passive immunity through blood products that contain antibodies.” This sort of protection is instant, but it may only last weeks to months.
IV Vitamins for a Stronger Immune System
If you have a cold, someone might suggest getting more vitamin C to boost your immune system, which is a good idea. One way to do this is through IV vitamin therapy, which has been around for decades. Depending on your overall health, symptoms, and other factors, your healthcare provider or another medical professional may recommend a nutrient- and vitamin-rich IV therapy.
Many vitamins are known to boost the immune system and may be included in IV therapy:
- Vitamin C. According to the U.S. National Institutes of Health, vitamin C subsidizes our natural immune defensive system by supporting numerous cellular functions in the innate and adaptive immune system.
- Vitamin E may protect your cells from oxidative damage thanks to its strong antioxidant properties. Antioxidants may protect your cells against harm caused by free radicals — molecules created when your digestive system breaks down food or when your body is exposed to nicotine and radiation.
- Vitamin A is known as an anti-inflammation vitamin because it promotes a healthy immune system and enables us to fight off a wide range of infectious diseases.
- Vitamin D has anti-inflammatory effects, and it fosters the production of immune cells. If you have vitamin D deficiency, you may be susceptible to many illnesses and disorders, like cancer, autoimmune disorders, cognitive disorders, etc.
- Folate/folic acid isn’t just for expectant mothers. It supports many vital bodily functions, like creating healthy red blood cells and supporting cell development.
- Iron not only supports a healthy immune system, but without enough, your body can’t make enough of an ingredient in red blood cells that allows them to carry oxygen.
- Selenium is an antioxidant that helps reduce oxidative stress in your body and, in turn, reduces inflammation and boosts immune system function.
- Zinc.
There are other ways to boost your immune system besides IV vitamin therapy. Some people choose ketamine therapy, while others opt to lose weight, exercise, quit using nicotine, and try other ways to stay healthy.