Most of us have heard before that you are what you eat. In some cases, people aren’t able to eat foods in adequate amounts or even at all due to injury or disease. For instance, damage caused to the intestinal tract via Celiac’s, Crohn’s or ulcerative colitis can severely impair the gut’s ability to absorb nutrients. Major burns, acute kidney injuries, or even those who have a chronic alcohol use disorder can benefit from IV therapy. 

How do you know you have enough nutrients? Our food is not what it used to be. With the onslaught of toxic chemicals, GMO’s, and depleted soil, no wonder there are more chronic illnesses in the world these days. The human body can only live so long without proper nutrition and hydration, so IV therapy is a tool that can help bridge this gap.

Also known as vitamin drips, these generally consist of a saline solution bag with additional nutrients added. Vitamins such as B vitamins and vitamin C, minerals such as zinc or magnesium, electrolytes, and other nutrients can be used. In a medical setting, medications may also be added. Once the IV bag is prepared, a small needle is used to puncture a vein in your arm. The needle is retracted leaving a small catheter in place where the fluids can flow directly into your blood vessels. Once set, you can relax on a chair or couch while the drip is going on.

Vitamin drip bars are becoming more popular around the country. People may use a vitamin drip to help recover from jet lag, a hangover, food poisoning, a workout, or to support healthy glowing skin. I often prescribe whichever type of IV is best for you and your health conditions after a brief visit in the office. 

Some common conditions that I use IV therapy for are adrenal fatigue, hives, eczema, Epstein barr virus (mono), gastrointestinal disorders such as Celiac, fibromyalgia, marathon recovery, surgery recovery, frequent colds/flu, and for acute immune system support. IV therapy can also be helpful with morning sickness, fatigue, dehydration, headaches, and more. These can cost $200 or more depending on where you go. 

At Wellsource we have a variety of IV’s available. Check out our IV menu here. Wherever you go to get your IV’s, remember to check out the physicians who have developed them. 

Resources:
Shmerling, Robert. N.D. “Drip Bar: Should You Get an IV on Demand?” Modified Nov. 2, 2022. https://www.health.harvard.edu/blog/drip-bar-should-you-get-an-iv-on-demand-2018092814899

Wells, Charlotte, et al. 2020. Intravenous Multivitamin Therapy Use in Hospital or Outpatient Settings: A Review of Clinical Effectiveness and Guidelines. Canadian Agency for Drugs and Technologies in Health

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