FAQ Intravenous Vitamins

Intravenous Vitamins

Is there any evidence of IV therapy?
There are no randomised controlled trials for or against IV therapy and there are unlikely to ever be. The rationale for IV therapy from the OptiVein Team is based on the fact that in today’s lifestyle we may not get all the nutrients we should from food because: 1. The mineral content of soil has changed and thus the plants grown 2. Depending on the food source of meat there is a huge discrepancy in vitamins, minerals and omega’s in meat and meat products (eggs, milk, cheese) Even if the correct food choices are made (e.g butter over margarine), one may not absorb the vitamins and minerals due to: 1. A combination of foods that reduce absorption (e.g iron (meat) and calcium (dairy)) 2. Medications and the side effects thereof 3. A change in the gut microbiome Although some inflammation and oxidative stress is necessary this needs to be in balance - Lifestyle and poor food choices (fast foods, preservatives, refined sugars) may result in an increase in inflammation and oxidative stress. It is known that stressed individuals, elderly, athletes and women who diet often have micronutrient deficiencies.
How are OptiVein IV’s different?
The idea behind the OptiVein IV’s are to optimise each cell with what they may be lacking (except fat soluble vitamins). These not only include vitamins but minerals, trace elements and amino acids (the building blocks of life). To try and test for deficiencies of all of these is firstly not possible and secondly would be exorbitantly expensive. Then to tailor make a drip would be even more expensive. So if one has normal kidney and liver function, one can absorb what one needs from the IV’s. So, not only are a wide range of nutrients given with 100% absorption, it is also cost-effective.
What is the aim of OptiVein IV Therapy
The aim behind the OptiVein IV’s are to ‘reset; your cells to an optimal functioning level. Thereafter one needs to focus on improving the gut microbiome – reducing medications, nutritional changes, reducing/eliminating alcohol and an overall lifestyle change to ensure you are eating and absorbing the correct food. It is a stepping stone to a healthier life. The IV’s are an aid to get you there
How are OptiVein IV’s planned?
OptiVein IV’s do need to be planned. We need to know the reason and symptoms you are wanting an IV. We may test iron levels as this needs formulated replacement. If you have been taking supplements for a long time, we may check your B12 levels as well. We will want to ensure your kidney and liver function are normal as well and for male athletes we will test testosterone.
Can I do a customised IV?
Yes, of course! Customised drips may be discussed as well and these will then be ordered just for you.
What is the biggest benefit over oral supplements?
IV therapy works by infusing essential vitamins, minerals, and amino acids directly into the body. Bypassing the digestive tract allows for 100% absorption of all nutrients, which makes them immediately available for cellular use. With increased use of medications, reduced nutrients in foodstuffs, and changes in the gut microbiome (such as alcohol intake), nutrient absorption and adequate delivery to the cell is often suboptimal, and the intravenous route bypasses this.
Will I feel the effects immediately?
No, you may feel washed out and tired for a day or two after the initial IV. Then as you absorb what you need, you may feel the effects thereafter up to the next two weeks. Some people have also described initial flu like symptoms. The effects depend on what you were lacking – you may feel more energy or metabolise more efficiently. Or if inflammation and oxidative stress have improved you may feel overall healthier.
Can anyone receive an IV?
We recommend that individuals over the age of 18 receive IV Therapy & Booster Shots. If you have a specific need, please reach out to us directly.
Does Medical Aid pay?
Generally medical aid does not cover IV supplements. However, if one has iron deficiency anemia, most medical aids will cover the cost of the iron infusion under certain conditions.
How often can I use IV therapy?
There is no evidence on frequency of IV’s, and it depends what you are having in the drip, but best to reassess every second or third month. During that period, we recommend you listen to your own body. Please see the aim of OptiVein IV therapy -the idea is it should be needed intermittently if you can change your lifestyle.
Are there side-effects I should worry about?
With IV Vitamin Therapy, side effects are infrequent and minimal. The most common side effect is irritation at the IV insertion site. Some people may experience a sensation of warmth and flushing during treatment or have the taste of vitamins in their mouth shortly after the infusion. Though high doses of vitamins are more easily tolerated through IV Vitamin Therapy than oral vitamin supplements, it is a good idea to start with lower doses and work your way up to minimize discomfort or sensitivity. There is a very low risk of serious adverse side effects.
What Results can I expect?
Everyone is different and therefore will experience varied results. Some feel more energised and detoxified after their infusion whereas others may not notice a physical difference but will have more vitamins in their system which are bioavailable for the body to absorb. It is also important to note that after an infusion one may feel more tired or flu-like initially, before one feels better, This is thought to be related to the detoxification process and the blast of vitamins you have presented to your cells which they may not be used to from your lifestyle.
Is IV drip therapy legal for athletes?
Whilst many of our clientele are athletes, and all infusions are certainly legal, if you are sponsored or have concerns, we advise you to check first with your sponsor or coach.
 

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FAQ Intravenous Vitamins