Reduces Inflammation Caused by Low Blood Sugar in Diabetes
Vitamin C infusion during periods of low blood sugar reduces the generation of oxidative stress and inflammation, protecting blood vessel health in individuals with type 1 diabetes (4).
Low blood sugar, or hypoglycemia can be considered a new risk factor for vascular complications related to diabetes, such as atherosclerosis or nephropathy. Hypoglycemia leads to oxidative stress, which then induces blood vessel dysfunction and inflammation.
Because IV vitamin C can reduce oxidative stress, it can potentially support the health of blood vessels in people with diabetes or those who struggle to control blood sugar levels.
Related: Is Type 2 Diabetes Reversible?
Vitamin Reduces Symptoms of Anxiety & Depression
Ascorbic acid, or vitamin C, has shown to have neuroprotective and antidepressant-like effects in numerous studies (1).
Interestingly, the brain maintains a higher level of ascorbic acid, even when bodily levels are lower. This preferential accumulation makes sense in the context that the brain is especially sensitive to oxidative damage from free radicals with its high oxygen content and relatively low levels of internal antioxidants.
Oxidative damage has been associated with depression, anxiety disorders, and stress. Depressive individuals present lower plasma levels of antioxidants, including vitamin C (or in this case, ascorbate). A deficiency in vitamin C is also associated with abnormalities in areas of the brain that control learning & memory, as well as a risk of schizophrenia and bipolar disorder.
Vitamin C Supports Immune Health
In stressful situations or illness, vitamin C is consumed quickly as the body tries to mitigate oxidative damage. In these instances, IV vitamin C may help restore depleted levels and support the body’s natural defense mechanisms (5).
During any infection, cells experience oxidative stress, and undergo depletion of vitamin C, magnesium, and glutathione, while calcium is increased. Increased intracellular (inside the cell) calcium increases all-cause mortality risk (6), while increasing magnesium decreases all-cause mortality risk (7).
Delivery of intravenous vitamin C decreases calcium levels inside a cell (8), as does the presence of magnesium. So, when intracellular magnesium and vitamin C levels are adequate, the cell is protected from oxidative stress and can perform its functions as normal.
Browse: The Cold & Flu Buster IV Infusion
Potential Risks & Considerations
While the therapeutic window for vitamin C is wide—meaning the gap between the levels that provide benefit and those that can cause harm is large—there are caveats to high-dose administration. Patients receiving IV vitamin C may experience minor discomfort at the infusion site or feelings of warmth, flushing, or lightheadedness. In rare cases, excessive doses may lead to kidney stones.
Some studies suggest that high-dose IV vitamin C may reduce the effectiveness of certain chemotherapy drugs and radiation therapy in cancer patients. Therefore, it’s crucial to consult with a medical professional before pursuing this treatment.
Additionally, IV vitamin C may interfere with certain medications and medical conditions, such as glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PD) deficiency, a condition that can cause red blood cells to break down (9).
Navigating the World of IV Vitamin C
For those seeking IV vitamin C therapy, ensuring safety and efficacy is paramount. It is essential to seek treatment from reputable providers, ideally under the guidance of a licensed integrative medicine physician.
A comprehensive health evaluation before initiating treatment can assess the appropriateness of IV vitamin C.
What to expect with IV vitamin C infusion
Dosing and duration of treatment may vary depending on your health needs. A typical regimen could involve anywhere from 4 to 25 grams, delivered over an hour or two, with treatments repeated anywhere from once per week to every few weeks.
IV Infusions containing vitamin C at CentreSpringMD include:
- The Lush Locks drip
- The Cold & Flu Buster
- The Beauty Drip
- The Recharge Drip
- The Migraine Drip
- The Fertility Drip
The process starts by inserting a needle into a vein in the hand or arm and delivering the vitamin C solution. Patients typically sit in a comfortable chair during treatment, and the infusion may take anywhere from 30 minutes to a couple of hours.
During the infusion, patients may experience a warm sensation or flushing in their chest or face as the vitamin C solution enters your bloodstream.
Learn more about IV Infusions.
The Future of IV Vitamin C Therapy
The burgeoning research and evidence around IV vitamin C therapy present an exciting world of potential health benefits. It’s also one that requires thoughtful consideration and close collaboration with an integrative healthcare team. While the promise is alluring, an informed approach that acknowledges both the benefits and risks of IV vitamin C therapy will empower individuals to make decisions that align with their health goals, whether as an adjunct therapy to diseases like cancer, or simply to maintain overall wellness.
For those considering IV vitamin C, the message is clear: do your homework, have open discussions with providers, and keep your medical team in the loop. With some consideration, patients can maximize its potential in a safe and sustainable manner.
