IV therapy - Higher Health Naturopathic Centre and IV Lounge

Fibromyalgia Symptoms and Treatments

Fibromyalgia Symptoms, Treatments And What You Can Do About It Starting Today!

In this article we’re going to cover:

Symptoms of Fibromyalgia
What causes Fibromyalgia
What Nutrients You Can Take To Help Fibromyalgia
How IV Therapy Can Help

Fibromyalgia affects 2% of Canadians, with about 80-90% of those being female…that’s close to 600 000 women in Canada! Even with these numbers some Doctors still dismiss Fibromyalgia as being ‘all in your head’. This is definitely NOT the case!

If you have been diagnosed with fibromyalgia, you are not alone.

Before you get into this article, if at anytime you want to speak to one of our Toronto Naturopathic Doctors about Fibromyalgia we have a free consultation call available. Click here to book one.

Before we get into Treatments, let’s take a look at the Fibromyalgia Symptoms.

What Are The Top 10 Symptoms of Fibromyalgia?

Pain
- Can be felt in one area or many areas throughout the body
- Can be made worse when firm pressure is applied to soft tissues, or sometimes with gentle pressure such as a hug
Fatigue
Muscle weakness
Sleep disturbances
Mood changes (irritability, anxiety, depression)
Difficulty concentrating
Brain fog and Memory issues
Gastrointestinal issues (constipation, diarrhea, IBS)
Sensitivity to bright light, loud sounds, and smells
Headaches

What causes Fibromyalgia Symptoms?

Fibromyalgia symptoms may develop after an illness, trauma, or a stressful or emotional experience; although, this is not always the case often leaving the cause unknown.

Research suggests that for people with fibromyalgia, the body’s pain messages are delivered in an abnormal way; the volume gets amplified and turned up putting the nervous system into overdrive.

The brain has difficulty processing this amplified message, which has been linked to the chronic and widespread pain experienced by people.

In addition, dysfunction (when things don’t work as well as they should) within a few key systems seem to be a recurring theme for those with fibromyalgia.

These include dysfunction within the mitochondria- the energy powerhouses of the cells, the master switchboard – the hypothalamus, and dysfunction within the immune system.

Mitochondrial dysfunction, or impaired energy production can help explain the lack of energy, fatigue, and muscle shortening seen with people who suffer from fibromyalgia.

Dysfunction within the hypothalamus can cause abnormal controls signals leading to disrupted sleep, which then affects hormones, rest, and tissue repair.

In addition, abnormal control signals also affects the way the brain perceives the pain messages.

Furthermore, immune dysfunction leads to altered balance within the immune pathways resulting in excess inflammation.

The big question that remains is, why does this dysfunction occur?

Unfortunately, we do not have all the answers to this question and research continues to develop.

What we do know is that a combination of factors can lead to these systems being damaged including genetic defects in metabolic and detoxification pathways, external stressors from things like infections, toxins, heavy metals, and mental or emotional trauma.

Using IV therapy As A Treatment For Fibromyalgia

IV therapy can be an amazing treatment as part of a client’s treatment plan, alongside lifestyle and nutritional changes.

It can help to fortify and restore dysfunctional systems, and to aid the body’s detoxification pathways. IV therapy bypasses the gut, delivering nutrients directly to cells to increase cellular nutrient concentrations, supporting healthy metabolism, and waste removal.

IV Therapy can also help provide immediate support as dietary and lifestyle changes may take time for individuals to implement and see results from.

The overall treatment goal with fibromyalgia is to eliminate, strengthen, and restore. It is important to help the body eliminate and minimize triggers that could be affecting the key systems identified earlier.

This includes triggers such as stress, infections, toxin / heavy metal exposure, allergies and intolerances. Strengthening systems such as the immune system, adrenals and gut become an important next step.

The immune system’s primary role is to defend the body from invaders; however, an increased production of some of its soldiers, cytokines, can lead to an imbalance and the chronic inflammation seen in fibromyalgia.

Removing both physical and psychological triggers can help lower cytokine levels, alongside additional supports to help reduce inflammation.

Common hormonal imbalances include cortisol dysregulation, sex hormone imbalances, and thyroid disorders – identifying these issues, removing triggers and restoring homeostasis to these pathways can have profound effects.

Healing the gut is another key part of treatment, as a leaky gut has been implicated for many patients with fibromyalgia. Targeted nutrients can help heal and tune up the energy powerhouses, the mitochondria, to restore cellular energy.

Given the complexities of this condition and how unique it is to each individual, the IV Therapy treatment plan will look different for every person.

Important Nutrients Targeted in IV Therapy For Fibromyalgia:

Here is a list of potential nutrients that would be included in your IV Therapy treatment and how they help with fibromyalgia relief.

Copper: Copper deficiencies can affect how pain is perceived in the body, heightening the response. In addition, a copper deficiency has been associated with increased incidence of infections, and immune dysregulation.

Magnesium: One of the most common mineral deficiencies in those with fibromyalgia. It is a cofactor in hundreds of enzymes, including those involved with energy production in the mitochondria.

A deficiency also can cause excessive muscle tension, muscle spasms, and restlessness.

Additionally, it plays a role in nerve conduction and function, and the regulation of emotional reactions. It has been found that IV supplementation with magnesium can dramatically increase serum levels compared to oral supplementation, and increase the amount that is able to enter into cells.

Selenium: A deficiency with selenium has been associated with muscle pain, playing a role in modifying free radical damage to cells.

Zinc: An important mineral for proper immune function, and the development of white blood cells (the soldiers in our immune system army).

Vitamin C: IV Vitamin C has been shown to improve pain, improve fatigue, and help improve detox pathways. With oral supplementation, the amount of Vitamin C that can be absorbed is limited. IV Vitamin C allows for much larger doses to be administered, allowing for a greater amount to enter into circulation and reach our cells which is where we see benefit.

Glutathione: Glutathione is our master antioxidant in the body. It has anti-viral properties, and is also key in helping to make sure our bodies can eliminate toxins effectively. Glutathione levels can become depleted after accumulated exposure to toxins, heavy metals, and infections and thus become even more critical to replenish in these situations. In addition, it also plays a role in the overall function of muscle tissue.

Taurine: Taurine is an amino acid that helps to control the concentration of certain minerals in our cells (sodium, potassium, calcium, magnesium, and chlorine). Taurine supplementation, alongside magnesium can have an additive muscle relaxation effects.

Carnitine: L-Carnitine is an amino acid that plays an essential role in energy production and optimal mitochondrial function.

Alpha Lipoic Acid: A key antioxidant in helping to regulate glutathione levels in the liver and other tissues, assisting in our body’s detox pathways. Alpha Lipoic acid has also been found experimentally to help regulate cytokine levels, and thus reduce inflammation.

Vitamin B5: Required for energy production.

Vitamin B6: Helps to normalize thiamine levels, and can be helpful for muscle spasms. It is also required for the conversion of tryptophan to serotonin, our feel good neurotransmitter. This neurotransmitter has been found to be low in those with fibromyalgia.

Vitamin B12: Has been shown to help reduce muscle cramping and muscle pain. In addition, it also plays an important role in ensuring optimal function of the brain and nervous system.

B-complex (thiamine, niacinamide, riboflavin, B5, B6): Has been shown to decrease pain at the level of the pain receptors.

Folate: A deficiency in folate has been linked to peripheral neuropathy. Malabsorption of folate has also been found in those with GI disturbances (leaky gut, IBS).

NAC: A glutathione precursor that can help assist the body’s detox pathways, and reduce inflammation.

Overall hydration provided by the IV Drip formula can also be beneficial for patients with fibromyalgia. Dehydration has been found to aggravate many of the symptoms experienced by those with fibro. Our Naturopathic Doctors have been trained on how to adjust the osmolarity of the IV solution, to allow water entry into the cells for proper rehydration and optimal benefits.

Additional Nutrients that are Important in Fibromyalgia:

Vitamin D: Research has found that the majority of fibromyalgia patients are deficient in Vitamin D. Achieving optimal levels of Vitamin D can help reduce musculoskeletal pain, assist in hormone balance, and in optimal immune functioning.

CoQ10: CoQ10 plays a crucial role in how cells produce energy. Some research has indicated that supplementation with CoQ10 can help restore mitochondrial function, optimize energy production, and reduce the symptoms experienced with fibromyalgia.

Iron: Research has shown a possible association between fibromyalgia and decreased ferritin levels. Iron is a cofactor for both serotonin and dopamine production, involved in the etiology of fibromyalgia. Repletion of iron stores (ferritin levels over 40, optimally between 50-75) either by oral supplementation, or injectable when warranted, can help replete both mitochondrial and hematologic iron stores.

Our Naturopathic Clinic in Toronto has care providers and Naturopathic Doctors that have experience in helping people with fibromyalgia reduce their pain, and improve their energy.

You are not alone in this fight, and there are treatment options for you! Speak to a member of our team today to see how IV therapy and naturopathic medicine can help you feel in control again.

You can book a Free Consultation and speak to a Naturopathic Doctor by clicking here.

References:

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17515022/

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2894814/

https://www.carepath.ca/living-with-fibromyalgia/

https://rheum.ca/resources/publications/canadian-fibromyalgia-guidelines/

https://cwhn.ca/node/40784

https://www.intechopen.com/chapters/57006

https://ndnr.com/pain-medicine/benefits-of-iv-micro-nutrient-therapy-for-fibromyalgia-and-chronic-fatigue-syndrome/

IV Drip for Energy

An IV Drip for energy is one of the more requested IVs that we do in our Toronto IV Lounge.

This article will share:

How an IV Drip for Energy works for you
What goes into your IV Drip and why it can help you
We’re going to talk about the causes and symptoms of chronic low energy
We’re going to get a little technical on how are cells make energy and the mighty mitochondria

Before you get into this article, if at anytime you want to speak to one of our Toronto Naturopathic Doctors about an IV Drip, we have a free consultation call available. Click here to book one..

Is “I’m so tired” consistently a part of your daily vocabulary? Fatigue and low energy are one of the most common complaints we hear at our Naturopathic clinic. Our busy lifestyles and constant on the go schedules, running from one place to another often leaving our gas tanks empty.

People will often say that they need that extra cup of coffee in the afternoon just to make it through the day. Some people identify feelings of physical exhaustion, stating that they just want to lie down on the couch after work, and feel like they can’t get up the remainder of the night.

Others identify feelings of mental exhaustion, that feeling of “blah”, a lack of motivation, brain fog, and feel like they are going through life on auto-pilot.

It’s Not Normal To Feel Tired All The Time

Sometimes fatigue can be temporary, because maybe you lost some sleep with a sick child, or trying to finish a project at work, or maybe were battling a cold and just feel a little sluggish.

However, constantly feeling like you’re running on empty can be a sign that a deeper root cause is at play.

IV drip therapy can help provide you with the vitamins, minerals, and targeted nutrients you need to replenish your energy stores. IV therapy bypasses the digestive system, and is delivered directly to your blood stream so that cells can get the boost of energy they need quickly.

How an IV Drip can help boost energy

IV therapy formulas can specifically be made to replenish nutrients, and the helpers that mitochondria need to function properly. This may include B vitamins, Vitamin C, carefully selected amino acids, minerals, and antioxidants. Not only can this provide all the helpers our mitochondria need to produce energy, but it can also correct for any overall underlying deficiencies so our cells are healthy and happy.

In addition, glutathione, the master antioxidant, can neutralize harmful free radicals to help prevent further damage to our cells, while also assisting detoxification pathways in the liver.

At Higher Health, our Naturopathic Doctors have specialized training to customize an IV formula specific to your needs, and to help boost energy, taking action against low energy. You don’t have to continue relying on coffee to just make it through the day.

What Would Go Into Your IV Therapy Drip for Energy?

We start with a Higher Health base bag which includes:

Vitamin C
Magnesium
B Vitamins
Amino Acids (which promote cellular repair and optimal function)

From there we add on the nutrients to target more energy! The amazing thing about IV Drip therapy, is that when we’re targeting more energy, you’re also getting nutrients that help with your immune health, sleep, brain fog, digestion, pain relief and quite a few other conditions!

Here are the add ons to your IV Drip for Energy.

Additional Vitamin C – Vitamin C is a strong antioxidant and prevents our DNA from damage. By supporting detoxification in the body, it ensures the health of our cells where we can utilize energy more efficiently.

B5 – Vitamin B5 is essential for producing energy from food in the form of ATP. It plays a role in the metabolism of carbohydrates, fats and proteins, which provide us with energy.

B6 – Vitamin B6 is a cofactor in several pathways in our bodies, meaning we use it for a variety of functions. It plays a role in energy production by supporting the production of ATP.

Carnitine – Carnitine works as a shuttle where it transports fatty acids into the mitochondria (the part of the cell where we house our energy) for cellular respiration. It helps metabolize ketones and convert amino acids into energy for our bodies.

Amino Acids – Branched-chain amino acids are essential nutrients that our muscles break down to supply our bodies with energy. We require adequate levels of amino acids to provide our tissues with energy.

NAC – By replenishing glutathione levels in the body, N-acetyl-cysteine supports the antioxidant pathway which helps clear oxidants from the body. When oxidants are built up, they can cause fatigue as a symptom.

Glutathione – Glutathione is our master antioxidant that helps clear free radicals (oxidants) from the body. Similar to the function of NAC, glutathione neutralizes oxidants which results in more energy available to our cells.

What Are The Root Causes of Low Energy Anyways?:

There are several reasons why you may be feeling fatigued, and/or that have less get up and go compared to your usual self.

Some of these include:

Poor diet and exercise habits
Medications
Anemia (Iron, B12, folate deficiency)
Illness or weakened immune system
Chronic pain (ie fibromyalgia)
Mental health concerns (anxiety, depression)
Mitochondrial dysfunction
Stress
Sleep disorders
Thyroid disorders

Your Toronto Naturopathic Doctor will complete a full assessment, and detailed history to identify what may be cause of your fatigue. They can customize your IV drip therapy treatment with carefully selected nutrients to replenish and supplement according to your health concerns.

Symptoms of Low Energy and Fatigue:

When someone has low energy the first thing that comes to mind are exhaustion, and the desire to sleep. However, there are a plethora of symptoms one can experience.

These can include:

Lack of concentration or focus
Brain fog
A tendency to drift off during the day
Headaches
Moodiness including irritability
Muscle aches and pains
Muscle weakness
Unrefreshed sleep upon waking
Impaired decision making and judgement
Chronic tiredness or sleepiness

How Our Cells Make Energy

Our bodies make energy in form of something called ATP. ATP is the molecule that the body uses as energy currency in every cell, like spending money to buy food, gas, clothes, etc. This molecule is made by what is known as the powerhouse of the cell, the mitochondria.

Think of mitochondria as tiny energy producing organelles, that live in each and every one of our cells, with their own DNA and protective cell membrane. Some cells that use a lot of energy, like muscle cells, have thousands of mitochondria, where other cells have only hundreds such as the skin.

We need our mitochondria to be working optimally, in order for ours bodies to function properly and to have the energy it needs to work at its best. Mitochondrial dysfunction is often at the root of low energy and fatigue. Even a slight decrease in the production of energy from our mitochondria can produce symptoms like physical weakness, fatigue, and brain fog.

Mitochondria take macronutrients (fats, carbohydrates, proteins) from the food we eat, and convert it into the energy currency, ATP, through what’s known as the Krebs Cycle, and the Electron Transport Chain.

These two processes are complex biochemical reactions that occur in our cells, involving many steps, enzymes and co-factors. Co-factors are like helpers, and they help the enzymes at each step of the way to be able to do their job and continue through the cycle. Without these cofactors, all comes to a halt and adequate energy cannot be made.

Which Helpers are Needed for the Mitochondria to Make Energy?

B vitamins, but especially B1, B2 and B3
Magnesium
Zinc
Manganese
Glutathione (the master antioxidant)
NAD
Alpha Lipoic Acid
Carnitine

What can impair mitochondrial function?

Medications, Pesticides, Plastics and Toxins:

Certain medications and things like pesticides, plastics, and toxins need to be modified by the liver in order to be eliminated in the body. This process is called “Phase 1” detoxification, involves a family of enzymes called Cytochrome P450 and takes place in the mitochondrial membrane and endoplasmic reticulum. Some of these substances inhibit the family of P450 enzymes, while others promote it.

When there is an imbalance in this system, it uses a lot of energy and can cause excessive oxidation. Oxidation damages mitochondria, affecting their primary responsibility of producing energy for the cells.

Heavy Metal Exposure:

Heavy metals are things like mercury, lead, aluminum, cadmium, and arsenic. These specific metals inhibit the Kreb’s cycle in the mitochondria. Recall, Kreb’s cycle is one of the most important biochemical processes the mitochondria uses to help produce energy. In addition to that, heavy metals also increase reactive oxygen species which can further damage the mitochondrial membrane, and subsequently energy production.

Free Radical Damage:

When cells need more energy, the mitochondria step up to the plate, working in overdrive and in turn can become overworked. Think about this in times of stress, your body in a constant fight or flight, requiring excess energy to keep it going. When you’re younger, mitochondria can divide and replicate quickly, in an attempt to increase energy demands. However, over prolonged periods of stress, or as we grow older, the mitochondria can’t keep up. They become burnt out.

They start to break down. They can begin to “leak” electrons across their membranes as they become damaged, leading to the formation of free radicals and reactive oxygen species. As mentioned earlier, reactive oxygen species can further damage the mitochondria, ultimately leading mitochondria that are ineffective energy producers. In addition, we know that reactive oxygen species can also wreak havoc elsewhere in the body.

References:

https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0197458015004728

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12891154/

https://www.nature.com/articles/s41467-019-13668-3

https://www.health.harvard.edu/topics/energy-and-fatigue

https://www.health.harvard.edu/promotions/harvard-health-publications/boosting-your-energy

https://www.webmd.com/balance/features/energy-boosting-supplements

Glutathione IV Drip for Glowing Skin and Radiant Health

Before you get into this article, if at anytime you want to speak to one of our Toronto Naturopathic Doctors about Glutathione for health or a Glutathione IV Drip, we have a free consultation call available. Click here to book one.

Glutathione IV Drip for Glowing Skin and Radiant Health

Wouldn’t it be wonderful if there was a magic potion you could take that would help your skin glow, slow down the aging process, improve your immune health, energy, sleep and more?

You’re probably laughing and saying yea right, something like that is too good to be true.

What if we told you that even better, it is a natural, safe, and an indispensable molecule?

Something like this exists right now in your body, actually it is found in every cell in the body.

Although not a magic potion, this molecule deserves a lot of attention when it comes to health and wellness. Drum roll please… this molecule is called glutathione!

Glutathione is a very small protein called a tripeptide. This means it is composed of three amino acids: cysteine, glycine, and glutamic acid (aka glutamate).

You may have heard this molecule being referred to as the master antioxidant in our body, and this is because it boosts the utilization and recycling of other antioxidants including Vitamin C, Vitamin E, alpha lipoic acid and CoQ10.

How Does Glutathione IV Drip Impact Skin And Cosmetic Health?

Excessive exposure to sun, wind, stress, poor nutrition, lack of exercise and hormonal changes can wreak havoc on our skin ranging from increased wrinkles, age spots, to dry skin and acne.

Glutathione has the ability to help cells heal and regenerate internally. Glutathione has been found to decrease melanin production (age spots and pigmentation), decrease the appearance of wrinkles and increase elasticity of your skin.

Glutathione works on the skin pigment production primarily by inhibiting an enzyme called tyrosinase, which is involved in the process of making melanin.

Additional studies have attributed its master antioxidant properties for improving skin elasticity and reducing the appearance of wrinkles from the inside out.

Targeted Glutathione Supplementation:

Many things can deplete glutathione stores including but not limited to medications, alcohol, stress, poor nutrition, heavy metals, and pollution.

Our bodies have the ability to synthesize glutathione when provided with the right building blocks, and in addition it can recycle it back into its active form.

However, we know for a variety of reasons that many times demand exceeds production.

Glutathione is a picky molecule in terms of how it likes to be absorbed. When supplemented orally, our digestive enzymes can break it down and it does not always make its way into our circulation.

Glutathione is most readily absorbed either by inhalation in the form of a nebulizer, or by intravenous therapy. A Glutathione IV Drip.

Our Naturopathic Doctors at Higher Health offer both options, and can discuss Glutathione IV Drip treatments with you as part of your Naturopathic health plan. We have 2 IV drip lounges as well as private rooms available.

The benefit of a Glutathione IV Drip is that it can be the most efficient way to deliver glutathione, while also providing targeted nutrients to support skin health, energy, and radiance. Reach out to one of our Toronto Naturopathic Doctors today to discuss which option may be best for you!

You can book a free consultation info call with one of our Naturopathic Doctors by clicking here.

In this section we re going to get a little more technical on what exactly Glutathione is and how its working in your body

There are two main forms of glutathione: the active form which is reduced glutathione (GSH), and the inactive form, which is oxidized glutathione (GSSG). In its reduced form, it is on full patrol circulating the cellular environment to clean up free radicals, once this clean up occurs it becomes its oxidized and inactive form, GSSG.

In order to be recycled back into its active GSH form, an enzyme called glutathione reductase is needed. The issue is that when we are exposed to high toxic and inflammatory loads, meaning glutathione is working overtime to help clean up the damage, this enzyme becomes overwhelmed, and levels of oxidized, inactive GSSG accumulate.

This leaves our cells with insufficient amounts of the active glutathione molecule, and our protection against toxins, infections, and oxidative damage impaired.

What does Glutathione do in the body?

Glutathione has several key roles throughout the body that contribute to your health. Let’s dive into some of these in more depth.

Glutathione helps with Antioxidant protection:

We throw the word antioxidants around a lot, but what does it actually mean? Think of antioxidants like the anti-agers in your body. They work really hard to help protect your body from free radical and oxidative damage.

When our body produces energy, it also releases by-products known as free radicals. Free radicals can also accumulate due to external toxins, inflammation, and infection that our bodies have a hard time neutralizing leading to oxidative damage.

Free radicals are highly reactive forms of oxygen with one less electron. This means that when they come into contact with stable molecules (like healthy cells), they want to steal an electron, which can damage both the healthy cell and its DNA. Antioxidants are really important to fight and counteract the damage caused by free radicals by binding its oxidative compounds and neutralizing them.

Let’s think about this in a different analogy. When apples, pears, or avocados are cut and left open to the air, they oxidize and you see browning of the fruit.

In order to prevent this, we often sprinkle lemon juice or store them in water. We can think about antioxidants in the same way, they prevent browning of our cells and body.

Glutathione IV Drip helps with Detoxification:

Our bodies have a very organized process for waste collection, recycling, and elimination. This detoxification system is mainly controlled by our liver, but glutathione is essential in each phase.

Detoxification Has 3 Main Phases

Phase 1: Toxins such as car exhaust, smoke, alcohol, drugs, caffeine, heavy metals, drugs, and others are partially processed by these special proteins inside our mitochondria called cytochromes. These fat soluble toxins are transformed into intermediate, slightly water soluble substances. These intermediates can sometimes be more reactive than the original molecules. In an unhealthy liver partially processed toxins can become dangerous free radicals leading to damage throughout the body, depleting glutathione levels which is essential for protection. Phase 1 enzymes also naturally produce free radicals that need to be transformed by antioxidants into a harmless molecule; you can see why adequate levels of antioxidants are so important.

Phase 2: Phase 2 detoxification is where the toxic slightly water soluble intermediates will be neutralized. The reactive intermediates formed in phase 1, will be converted into non-toxic water soluble molecules by various enzymes. Phase II reactions attach the toxins to other water soluble substances to further increase their solubility and prepare for excretion. Glutathione is an essential part of this binding in a process called “conjugation”. Without glutathione, this process cannot work efficiently. Once conjugation is complete, toxins are ready to be eliminated from the body.

Phase 3: Excretion of toxins by the kidneys and urine, or by the liver in bile, and subsequently eliminated in our bowel movements. Fibre becomes important in this step as it helps to bind biliary and intestinal toxins to excrete in our bowel movements. Glutathione also appears to play a role in the phase 3 detoxification for its anti-porter activity, which are proteins involved in this phase.

Glutathione IV Drip helps with Mitochondrial support and energy production:

Almost every cell in the body has mitochondria, which is where our energy is produced, and how the mitochondria received the nickname “energy powerhouse of the cell”. Glutathione plays a huge role in protecting our mitochondria from free radical and oxidative damage. If the mitochondria are attacked and damaged by free radicals they slow down and start to make less ATP, our energy molecule. Less ATP = sluggish cells.

In addition to this, when mitochondria become damaged they don’t work as well. They become sloppy and more error prone, which means they create more free radicals in their process of trying to produce energy. You can see how this turns into a vicious cycle of both less energy and more damage.

Stress also plays into this equation. When our bodies are under a state of stress whether that be physical, or mental stress, our energy production and needs are higher. This means we ask our mitochondria to work harder, and as a result they produce more free radicals.

As mentioned several times throughout this article, glutathione is needed to help bind the free radicals, and reduce oxidative stress not only to our mitochondria but also to the rest of the cell. When we ask our cells and mitochondria to work harder, this means we also are asking glutathione to work more and harder.

This can deplete active glutathione levels, as the enzyme needed to recycle inactive glutathione to active glutathione becomes overwhelmed. Therefore, maintaining adequate levels of active glutathione is essential to our health, and for energy production.

Symptoms associated with low levels of active glutathione may appear as fatigue, lack of mental focus, and brain fog. Any of these sound familiar?

We also know that low levels of active glutathione are found in many chronic diseases such as multiple sclerosis, rheumatoid arthritis, Lyme disease, diabetes, and Crohn’s disease to name a few.

To sum it up, higher levels of glutathione in your body, are associated with healthier cells and mitochondria. Lower levels of glutathione are associated with cellular breakdown, increased risk of illness, and cell death.

References:

Vitamin C Deficiency. What It’s Doing To You And How You Can Fix It.

Before you get into this article, if at anytime you want to speak to one of our Toronto Naturopathic Doctors about Vitamin C deficiency or Vitamin C IV Drip, we have a free consultation call available. Click here to book one.

What are some of the symptoms of Vitamin C deficiency?

Unfortunately, Vitamin C deficiency is quite common. On the flip side, severe forms of Vitamin C deficiency, like Scurvy, is quite rare.

Risk factors that can lead to vitamin C deficiency are a lack of fresh fruits & vegetables in your diet, excessive alcohol intake, smoking, individuals with eating disorders, restrictive diets, food allergies, type I diabetes, inflammatory bowel disease, and patients on hemodialysis.

You can see why it’s so common with the typical North American lifestyle!

Vitamin C deficiency is usually diagnosed based on clinical signs and symptoms as well as assessing any contributing risk factors.

If you are concerned about your vitamin C levels, make sure to book an appointment with a Toronto Naturopathic Doctor for a thorough assessment.

Here Are Your Top 5 Initial Signs Of Vitamin C Deficiency

Fatigue
Weakness
Irritability
Joint pain
Muscle pain

When you don’t address a Vitamin C Deficiency, you can start having some serious problems that can result in:

Poor wound healing
Problems fighting infections
Easy bruising
Dry splitting hair
Dry/rough skin
Bleeding gums and/or tooth loss

Why is Vitamin C so crucial for our bodies?

Vitamin C, also known as ascorbic acid, is a water-soluble vitamin that is essential for optimal health and wellness. Humans are unable to synthesize vitamin C endogenously, meaning we have to get our vitamin C through diet and supplementation.

Since vitamin C is a water-soluble vitamin, very little can be stored in the body, therefore daily intake is very important to avoid deficiency. Vitamin C also tends to be depleted in instances of intense stress, trauma, burns, surgery, fever, inflammation, diarrhea, iron deficiency, and chronic infections so the need is even further increased during these times.

Our body also needs vitamin C to form and maintain blood vessels, cartilage, collagen, and bones.

Vitamin C acts as a highly effective antioxidant, plays an essential role in maintaining proper immune function, and facilitates the absorption of iron.

It’s probably one of the most important vitamins you need to keep on top of for overall health and wellbeing.

You can do this through diet, supplementation and when you’re really depleted or want to experience the benefits of high dose Vitamin C, you can try a Vitamin C Intravenous Vitamin Therapy, or IV drip.

What is IV Drip Therapy for Vitamin C Deficiency?

Intravenous (IV) therapy also know as an IV Drip, is the practice of infusing fluids directly into the bloodstream. Vitamins, minerals, amino acids, and other natural substances are administered directly into the veins allowing them to bypass the digestive system and go directly into the bloodstream where they are immediately available to the cells, muscles, and tissues that require them.

Since IV therapy skips the digestive process, it allows us to use much higher doses of natural substances than we can ingest orally. For instance, high dose IV Therapy for Vitamin C can be delivered in significantly greater amounts intravenously than can be taken orally and has a stronger therapeutic effect. IV vitamin C is only about 15 percent bioavailable (actively used by the body) when taken orally in high doses, but it is 100 percent bioavailable when administered intravenously, providing significantly higher peak plasma concentrations.

As IV vitamin C is one of the most popular and effective nutrients used in intravenous therapy, this next part is going to specifically focus on the many therapeutic uses of IV vitamin C and how it can potentially benefit you!

What are the benefits of IV Drip Vitamin C Therapy?

Intravenous vitamin therapy , or IV Drip , is an efficient and bioavailable way to replenish your body when you’re vitamin C deficient.

Vitamin C acts as a strong antioxidant, accelerates collagen production, aids in the development of a robust, healthy immune system, can provide patients with more energy, and guards against chronic diseases.

Since oral high doses of vitamin C are not well absorbed and can also result in gastrointestinal discomfort, the best way to administer high doses of vitamin C is through IV therapy.

IV vitamin C is commonly used to treat many conditions including:

Chronic infections
Fatigue and low energy
Joint pain
Mononucleosis
Fibromyalgia and Chronic fatigue syndrome
Shingles
Side effects of chemotherapy and radiation
Hypertension
Allergies
Asthma
Common cold and flu
Sinusitis
Migraines
Inflammatory bowel disease

IV vitamin C Antioxidant properties

Stress, alcohol consumption, and smoking can all cause oxidative stress. Oxidative stress results in the formation of damaging molecules called free radicals that can build up and harm our bodies.

Many diseases are caused by, or at least linked to, oxidative damage. Vitamin C is a physiological antioxidant that protects the body against oxidative stress and has been demonstrated to replenish other antioxidants in the body.

According to population studies, those who consume high doses of vitamin C have a lower risk of developing a variety of chronic diseases, such as heart disease, cancer, eye diseases, and neurodegenerative conditions.

Due to poor intestinal absorption and ready excretion from the body, high doses of vitamin C are needed to effectively act as an antioxidant, and IV vitamin C is the most optimal route for administration.

IV vitamin C for Collagen production

Collagen is the primary structural protein found in connective tissue and vitamin C is essential for collagen formation. Collagen is vital for healthy skin, teeth, bones, tendons, cartilage, blood vessels, and cardiovascular health. A lack of collagen can result in weakened blood vessels, ligaments, tendons, and bones and therefore, IV vitamin C is an excellent way to support our bodies’ need for collagen formation.

IV vitamin C for Immune Support

Infections have a major impact on decreasing vitamin C levels due to the increased inflammation and metabolic demands. A deficiency in vitamin C also lowers immunity and makes us more susceptible to infections. Vitamin C supplementation has been used in both the prevention and treatment of respiratory and systemic infections. High doses of IV vitamin C have been shown in research to be effective in managing difficult infections, such as Epstein Bar Virus, by reducing disease duration and amount of viral antibody levels. If you tend to get sick often or start to feel under the weather, an IV vitamin C treatment may be the boost your immune system needs.

IV vitamin C to help with Antihistamine effects

Histamine is known to play an important role in the development of atopic diseases, such as allergies and asthma. Vitamin C acts as a natural antihistamine and can decrease inflammation and swelling related to allergic conditions. Research has shown that IV vitamin C can reduce histamine levels in patients and reduce allergy symptoms such as sneezing, runny nose, and itchiness. Do you suffer from seasonal allergies? IV vitamin C may be a great option for you.

IV vitamin C for Energy

Fatigue is one of the most common symptoms individuals experience in day-to-day life. A lack of vitamin C can result in feelings of fatigue or depression as vitamin C is one of the many important nutrients required for proper energy production. Research has shown that high doses of IV vitamin C can reduce symptoms of fatigue so it may be just what you need for that energy boost!

How can a Toronto Naturopathic Clinic help?

Our Toronto Naturopaths at Higher Health are certified for IV drips that include IV vitamin C. Your naturopathic doctor will run all the required blood work to ensure proper screening takes place before beginning any IV therapy treatments. In Ontario, Naturopathic Doctors receive additional training to become licensed in intravenous therapy.

IV vitamin C can also be combined with a variety of other vitamins and nutrients tailored to meet your specific health concerns. A naturopathic doctor will individualize each IV treatment with the nutrients you require, the proper dosages, and number of IV sessions necessary to reach your health goals.

If you are interested in discussing how IV Therapy for Vitamin C can help you, book a free consultation with on of our Naturopathic Doctors.

References:

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29864039

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17884994/

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK493187/

https://dermnetnz.org/topics/scurvy/

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2898816/

https://ods.od.nih.gov/factsheets/VitaminC-HealthProfessional/#en1

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4015650/

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29099763/https://link.springer.com/article/10.1186/1475-2891-11-7

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12134712/