You’ve probably noticed more and more IV drip clinics have been popping up across major cities. And while on a surface level everyone can understand what these clinics do, one might still question the sudden rise in the popularity of IV drips. Do we need IV drips? How do they help to improve my daily life? Why are people choosing to get IV drips in the first place and how are they any different from other supplements? It’s time to find out.
What are IV drips and why are people opting for them?
IV drips are vitamins that are administered intravenously. They are used as a way of replenishing depleted nutrient levels in the body. The contents of an IV drip can be customised according to the needs of the patient. This gives the doctors an opportunity to custom-make the solution based on the patient’s individual deficiencies. For people with nutrient deficiencies, chronic fatigue, gut issues or those seeking preventive therapies, IV drips can be an effective management treatment.
But why do people with no such issues also opt for IV drips? They can be considered a preventative measure to help promote and maintain good health, and to help target symptoms like fatigue. People who have undergone IV drip therapy often report improved energy levels, fewer problems with digestion and improved skin and hair quality. This may be due to the presence of Glutathione (important for energy production) and Vitamin C, essential nutrients that are present across many different types of IV drips. Together, these can help to boost collagen and protein production which makes the skin looking young and radiant and your hair follicles healthy.
Another key reason why people opt for IV drip therapy is for the detoxification effects. The presence of vitamin C, which is a potent antioxidant, helps the body to remove free radicals (which cause oxidative stress), and aids in white blood cell production.
Athletes are often huge fans of IV drip therapy as they can contribute to faster recovery from intense workouts and training sessions. It is no surprise that under heavy loads, our body utilises nutrient reserves faster than normal, as a result leaving us depleted and making us feel low on energy. Replenishing nutrients with food can take quite a bit of time, which may lead to slower recovery. To overcome this, athletes and people with hectic schedules may utilise IV drips for their almost immediate vitamin delivery into the bloodstream, meaning faster absorption (and speedier recovery).
The above also applies to people with gut issues as slow and inefficient nutrient absorption can result in severe vitamin deficiencies. IV drips not only bypass the gut (and absorption issues), but work more efficiently than oral supplements, which take time to be processed by the body and can take months to build up to sufficient levels.
How do IV drips work? Do they have any side effects?
The main question that still needs answering – How does an IV drip actually work? The usual process of an IV drip therapy involves injecting a small needle into the vein of the patient. This allows for the nutrients to directly flow into the bloodstream, resulting in almost immediate absorption of nutrients. A cannula is inserted – usually at the inner elbow, where you’d have a blood test – and is attached to an IV bag containing your chosen vitamin-rich saline solution. The contents of this IV bag can usually be altered depending on your individual needs. IV vitamin therapy should be administered regularly to get the full, sustained effect but your clinician will discuss this with you at your appointment and what will work best for you.
And what about the side effects? Just like any medical treatment, IV drips do come with potential side effects, though generally they are few and far between. Some people who have IV drip therapy report headaches, and swelling, slight itching and redness at the cannula site, but these usually dissipate quickly. However, in rare cases, some patients can experience an allergic reaction to ingredients. Thankfully, by attending a doctor-led clinic, your clinic should have safety protocols in place, and will be well-versed in what to do in case of such an instance.
So how do you choose the right clinic? We’ve got you covered!
How to choose the right IV drip clinic?
Many people don’t realise that choosing the right clinic for your IV drip treatment is equally important as the contents of the drip itself.
Looking for an IV drip in London and feeling overwhelmed by the choice of clinics available? Don’t panic! Read on for some tips to narrow down the right clinic for yourself. Here are some considerations to bear in mind:
- It is important to make sure that your choice of clinic is doctor-led. This ensures that in case an unforeseen infection or allergic reaction takes place, the clinic’s medical staff is fully equipped to deal with it. Opting for a doctor-led clinic with an experienced clinician will ensure you are in safe hands and provide you with peace of mind.
- Take into account the reviews left by previous clients of the clinic. Feedback from real patients is a valuable tool for getting real insight into a clinic, and it can help your decision-making.
- Try to opt for a clinic which has in-house testing facilities. Vitamin testing via blood profiles can help to target any specific underlying vitamin deficiencies.
Please note: If you are someone who is already undergoing medical treatment, is on medication, or has a chronic health condition, it is recommended to consult your family doctor or GP before undergoing any IV vitamin therapy.
IV drips and your health
By now we understand that an IV drip is a great option for people who wish to optimise their health to deal with life’s daily challenges – and then some. However, choosing the right clinic for your IV vitamin therapy is just as important to reap the full benefits of the treatment. IV drips not only open pathways to a healthier future, but pave way to better overall wellbeing. Choose a healthy and happy life today!
