IV drips have recently gained popularity for their numerous health benefits. And while they have been around for a while, many people still question – How does an IV drip boost wellbeing? In this article, we answer all your questions and dive into the world of health optimisation through IV drips. We’ll also help you understand what to look out for when finding an IV drip clinic in London.
What are IV drips?: Explained
IV drips are an intravenous way to rehydrate the body, more specifically, in cases of deficiencies or medical ailments. The drips consist of a saline solution which contain a blend of medications and vitamins as needed, to help to replenish not only water, but nutrients in the body.
Typically, these drips are used in a hospital setting to quickly administer medications and nutrients to patients with severe deficiencies, but recent medical advancements mean that they have been made more accessible and vitamin drips have made their way into health clinics as a means of preventive therapy.
How does an IV drip work?
It is no surprise that IV drips are a quick and efficient way to administer nutrients in the body, but what makes them so effective?
IV or intravenous can be broken down into two parts: Intra meaning “inside” and venous meaning “veins”. During the process, a thin needle is inserted in the veins which is attached to a bag containing the nutrient rich solution. Simply put, this solution then “drips” into the veins. When the nutrients are delivered this way, they can be used by the body far more quickly than if consumed orally. It also allows for more efficient absorption of nutrients (90-100% of nutrients get absorbed), when compared to the conventional method of oral supplements, which need to go through the absorption process via gut.
Worried about the procedure being painful? While you may feel slight discomfort as the needle is being inserted, it should not feel painful. Infact, the sensation has been likened to a small pinch. Your chosen clinic will do everything it can to make sure you are comfortable throughout the procedure.
How can IV drips boost wellbeing? The benefits of IV therapy
Just like everything in this world, IV drips come in many sizes and variations. Whilst it’s true that the procedure and equipment remain the same, the contents of an IV can be customised based on your individual medical requirements. But you may still wonder about how an IV drip can boost your overall wellbeing. Is it just a means of treating vitamin deficiencies?
Firstly, let’s talk about fitness. As mentioned above, IV drips help to hydrate the body quickly due to its fast absorption via the veins. This process helps in restoring the water and saline reserves and is coupled with important nutrients for muscle building and recovery, like amino acids. It’s not just for athletes, and can benefit anybody who goes to the gym regularly and performs high intensity exercises. The result: Better performance and faster recovery times due to quick nutrient replenishment.
And if you thought that IV drips were only for high performing individuals, think again. An IV drip can not only help to reduce physical recovery times, but help us to age slower. What do we mean by this? As we grow older, our body’s NAD+ (a coenzyme found in mitochondria of the cell) levels deplete. NAD+ plays an important role in helping our cells turn food into energy. When we don’t have enough, our cells die off, resulting in visible (and invisible) symptoms of ageing. To combat this, some IV drop clinics are offering NAD+ IV drips to help restore NAD+ levels in the body, so you can feel more energised and ready to take on the day, even in your 50s. What’s more, youthful skin and healthy hair are a bonus!
Another way that IV drips can boost your wellbeing is by improving your immunity. A stronger immune system means that your body is able to fight off illness and infections better. Many IV drips contain ingredients that are essential for supporting the immune system, like vitamin C, glutathione, and zinc. A healthier immune system doesn’t just mean fewer illnesses, it also can lead to improved sleep quality, better mental health, and gut health. What a great way to keep diseases at bay!
Whether you are a teacher with exposure to many kids, a corporate employee with a high stress job, or simply have a busy lifestyle – if you want to support your health, there is an IV drip that can help boost your wellbeing.
Finding an IV drip clinic
An IV drip is a wonderful option if you would like to boost your wellbeing to help you live the life you want. IV drips can also open new pathways for people whose vitamin intake may be limited, and whose absorption may be hindered by health conditions or medications.
If you are considering undergoing IV vitamin therapy, multiple specialist clinics across London now offer bespoke IV drip services tailored to your needs. Here are some things to look out for when choosing an IV drip clinic:
- You should always consider attending a doctor-led clinic for safety reasons as they are equipped to deal with allergic reactions
- Take a look at reviews to get insight into what the experience is like from real people
- Opt for a clinic with testing facilities so that they can run blood profiles to find out exactly what you are deficient in and which vitamins you will benefit most from
It is advised to consult your GP before undergoing any medical procedure.