IV NUTRITIONAL THERAPY
Achieve optimal vitamin and nutrient levels via intravenous infusions and injections.
Intravenous (IV) nutritional therapy is a safe and effective method of delivering highly bio-available vitamins, minerals, amino acids, and other vital micronutrients directly into the bloodstream, bypassing the digestive system. In fact, oral intake of high-dose nutrients is impractical due to absorption limitations of the digestive processes. With IV therapy, ten times the nutrients may be administered in a single treatment, compared to oral administration.
Direct administration of nutrients into the bloodstream not only corrects deficiencies and optimizes cellular function but achieves higher nutrient levels efficiently.
Learn more about some of the ingredients
used in intravenous nutritional therapy
By Selecting an ITEM Below:
NAD+
Nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD+)— a key compound found in all living cells— is as fundamental to our cells as food and water are to our bodies.
NAD+ plays an essential role in a wide range of cellular reactions that make life possible, such as:
DNA health and repair
Converting Nutrients into Energy
Regulating circadian rhythms
Calcium mobilization
Lifespan regulation/ Healthy aging
Metabolic Activation
Maintaining liver health
Stem cell maintenance
Gene expression
Research is increasingly demonstrating that NAD+ repletion, via intravenous therapy, in conjunction with supplementation, improves mitochondrial and stem cell function and enhances lifespan. NAD+ IV is an emerging nutrient therapy that is safe, all-natural, and holistic, and shows outstanding results in clinical trials, particularly in treating chronic fatigue and age-related diseases. Administering a pharmacological dose of NAD+ directly into the bloodstream offers fast and effective results, ultimately replenishing NAD+ levels and boosting energy, enhancing athletic performance, improving mood, and optimizing health restoration.
“NAD+ replacement is one of the most exciting things happening in the biology of aging,” says Nir Barzilai, director of the Institute for Aging Research at the Albert Einstein College of Medicine in New York.
Vitamin C
Commonly referred to as Ascorbic Acid, vitamin C is a water-soluble vitamin that plays an essential role in many biological processes throughout the body, including maintaining muscles, bones, and skin, as well as supporting the immune and circulatory system.
Vitamin C has a broad spectrum of clinical applications, ranging from promoting skin health and improving mood, to boosting energy and treating infections. Additionally, vitamin C is key factor in the biosynthesis of collagen— a fundamental component of connective tissue. In this regard, vitamin C may enhance wound healing, reduce the appearance of stretch marks, prevent/and or limit photodamage, and maintain optimal skin health.
As a potent antioxidant, vitamin C protects cell structures like collagen, proteins, and DNA from the damaging effects of reactive oxygen species (ROS)—free radicals that contribute to oxidative stress and chronic disease.
Studies have shown that high-doses of vitamin C are well-tolerated and may be used safely in suppressing the formation of carcinogens, regulating immune response, and balancing reduction oxidation reactions that may lead to the development of cancer. In fact, when administered intravenously, researchers have found that high-dose vitamin C can produce hydrogen peroxide, which is “selectively” toxic to cancer cells but not healthy tissue.
Ultimately, high-dose IV vitamin C is a valuable therapeutic modality that can raise the blood levels 50 – 100 times higher than oral supplementation. Accordingly, common side effect of “bowel tolerance” (diarrhea) associated with high-dose oral vitamin C may be avoided.
Copper
Copper (Cu) is a key cofactor in many enzymatic reactions essential for normal nerve function, bone growth, iron assimilation, and regulation of blood sugar. Copper likewise assists in maintaining normal rates of red and white blood cell formation. Though rare, copper deficiency is a well-documented cause of both anemia, osteoporosis, and neurologic disease, and has been reported to develop after gastrointestinal surgery, intractable diarrhea, and poor nutrition.
Some conditions may increase the need for copper, including:
Burns
Diarrhea
Intestine disease
Kidney disease
Pancreas disease
Chronic stress
Zinc
Zinc (Zn) is a trace element vital for optimum immune system function, DNA synthesis, wound healing, and stimulating the activity of over 100 different enzymes. The element is naturally found in many food sources, including meat, fish, and dairy, and is also commonly available as a dietary supplement. Administration of zinc, as part of a complete trace element solution, is indicated for a variety of conditions, ranging from depression to recurrent ear infections. Mounting research demonstrates that zinc plays a key role in the production of hormones, such as testosterone and growth hormones, and may support recovery following strenuous exercise.
SELENIUM
Selenium (Se) is an essential micronutrient that plays a role in many bodily processes, including cognitive function, healthy immune system, and fertility in both men and women. In recent years, selenium has attracted the attention of researchers and health professionals due to its antioxidant properties. Namely, selenium moderates reactive oxygen species (ROS)— free radicals that cause cellular oxidative stress. Animal studies demonstrate that selenium supplementation may decrease free radical damage and boost immune system function.
Among healthy individuals in industrialized nations, selenium deficiency is uncommon; however, health conditions such as HIV, Crohn’s Disease, and related digestive disorders, are associated with low selenium levels.
Chromium
Chromium (Cr) is a ubiquitous mineral that humans require in trace amounts, and plays an important role in protein, carbohydrate, and lipid metabolism. As an essential part of metabolic processes that regulate blood sugar, chromium has been shown to potentiate the action of insulin, ultimately improving tissue sensitivity and facilitating glucose transport into cells (where it may be used as energy). Inadequate intake of chromium has been linked to the development of glucose intolerance— a condition observed in type 2 diabetes. Despite limited research, chromium supplementation has been shown to enhance muscle mass and weight loss, aid in raising HDL (“good”) cholesterol levels and prevent heart disease.
MOLYBDENUM
Molybdenum (Mo) is a metallic element found widely in nature, and is essential in trace amounts for human, animal and plant health. In humans and animals, molybdenum serves chiefly as a cofactor for enzymes, facilitates the breakdown of amino acids, and aids in the metabolism of fats and carbohydrates. The molybdenum content of foods largely depends on the molybdenum content of soil and quality of water supplied, which can vary considerably. In fact, the rate of esophageal cancer incidence worldwide is linked to low molybdenum content in soils and food. Legumes such as beans, lentils and peas are good dietary sources of molybdenum, while cereals, nuts, fruits, and animal products are considered generally low in the element.
Calcium
Calcium (Ca)—the fifth most common inorganic element in the human body— is the primary constituent of skeletal tissue, providing structural integrity and support for growth. The role of calcium in bone structure and muscle contraction is well established; however, calcium is equally important for blood coagulation, nerve transmission, intracellular signaling and hormonal secretion.
The skeleton is a key reservoir of calcium, drawn upon in the event of inadequate dietary calcium. Accordingly, calcium sufficiency is essential to promote peak bone mass during growth and to limit progressive bone demineralization with aging. Calcium gluconate—a mineral-based supplement— is commonly used to treat calcium deficiency and related conditions associated with low blood calcium levels, including bone loss, and muscle spasms. Similarly, calcium gluconate is indicated for high-need individuals such as women who are pregnant, nursing, or postmenopausal, as well as those taking certain prescription medications like prednisone. Ultimately, therapeutic treatment with calcium gluconate is safe and effective in raising ionized (free) calcium concentration to reverse or prevent calcium deficiency.
Taurine
Taurine is a sulfur-based amino acid most abundant in the brain, retina, heart, and muscles. Unlike most other amino acids, taurine is classified as “conditional,” meaning it can be synthesized endogenously (within the body) or sourced through taurine-rich foods, like meat, fish, and dairy. Taurine serves numerous important functions, including:
Maintaining immune system health
Supporting muscle growth and development
Regulating antioxidant function
Supporting a healthy central nervous system
Regulating anti-inflammatory function
Supporting metabolic function
Forming bile salts
Though taurine deficiency is rare, particularly in industrialized nations, certain diets like vegetarianism and veganism lack adequate amounts of the amino acid. Chronic conditions affecting the liver, kidney or heart, as well as diabetes and cancer, can contribute to taurine deficiency; likewise, aging may result in suboptimal endogenous production. Considering taurine’s essential role in the body, proper supplementation can provide a host of health benefits, including:
restoring insulin sensitivity
mitigating diabetic complications
supporting cardiovascular function
improving athletic performance
stabilizing cellular membrane electrical activity
supporting hepatic detoxification and biliary function
reducing fatigue
improving athletic performance
Glutathione
Glutathione (GSH)—commonly referred to as the body’s master antioxidant— is a natural compound present in all human cells. As the most important intracellular antioxidant known in human physiology, glutathione protects against free radical damage and is essential in the detoxification of environmental chemicals. Additionally, glutathione is involved in many biological processes, including DNA synthesis and repair, regulation of homocysteine, protein synthesis, and immune system enhancement. Glutathione is particularly useful with conditions associated with impaired detoxification, chronic inflammation, and free radical stress.
Factors such as poor diet, pollution, toxins, medications, stress, trauma, aging, infections, and radiation may all deplete glutathione, and contribute to deficiency. Studies show that many diseases are linked to glutathione deficiency, including Parkinson’s disease— a neurodegenerative condition characterized by progressive loss of motor control. Considering glutathione crosses the blood-brain barrier, when administered via IV, it is particularly useful in neurodegenerative conditions. Medical trials have found that glutathione IV supplementation resulted in marked improvements in rigidity, posture, gait, speech, and depression.
Research additionally demonstrates that increased glutathione levels:
Boost strength & endurance
Shift metabolism function from fat production to muscle development
Decrease muscle damage
Reduce recovery time
The body’s ability to synthesize and maintain high levels of glutathione is vital to recovery, disease prevention, and maintaining optimal health.
Magnesium
Magnesium (Mg)— the second most abundant element in human cells— is involved in a wide variety of physiologic functions, including:
nerve impulse generation and conduction
cardiac rhythmicity
normal muscle contraction
healthy immune system
cardiovascular health
strong bones
blood glucose levels
energy and protein production
300 unique biochemicals reactions
67 percent of the body’s total magnesium resides in the skeleton, structurally making it a critical component of bones. Magnesium is also central in certain neurological processes and has been implicated in memory formation and storage. Considering magnesium’s range of key functions in the body, receiving an adequate supply through the diet is crucial. Though foods such as leafy greens, nuts, and sunflowers seeds, are high sources of magnesium, research now shows that magnesium mineral content in food sources is declining, ultimately contributing to low magnesium serum concentrations— a factor increasingly detected in patients with certain chronic diseases. Lifestyle factors (e.g. poor nutrition and excess alcohol intake), medications, and lower mineral content in fruits and vegetables, all contribute to magnesium deficiency and related medical conditions that respond well to intravenous administration of magnesium sulfate.
ALPHA LIPOIC ACID
Alpha lipoic acid (ALA) is a naturally occurring fat-and water-soluble antioxidant that is conditionally essential and produced by all living cells. Alpha lipoic acid is considered the “universal antioxidant” due to its diverse physiological functions:
free radical scavenging
metal chelation
endothelial dysfunction support
reduction of oxidative stress post exercise
atherosclerosis plaque inhibitor
As a “universal antioxidant,” alpha lipoic acid directly recycles and enhances the metabolic life span of vitamin C, vitamin E, glutathione, and coenzyme Q10, thereby prolonging their effectiveness and reinforcing the immune system. As a mitochondrial powerhouse, alpha lipoic acid optimizes function of the mitochondria in aging cells and reverses cell aging, making it a valuable ally against diabetes, liver damage, and a multitude of other diseases—including cancer. Additionally, alpha lipoic acid’s powerful anti-inflammatory and lipid-lowering capabilities render it an essential, multi-targeted nutrient for reducing cardiovascular risk. In fact, alpha lipoic acid infusion therapy has been shown to counteract hardening of the arteries – a symptom of cardiovascular disease that significantly increases the risk of myocardial infarction.
VITAMIN B12
Methylcobalamin— a naturally occurring form of vitamin B12— is an essential water-soluble nutrient that plays an important role in many biochemical processes, including:
DNA synthesis
Nerve cell health
Energy production
Neurological function
Red blood cell formation
Though vitamin B12 is present in many food sources, such as fish, shellfish, meat, and dairy, several lifestyle and risk factors may contribute to B12 deficiency:
Vegan diet
Lack of intrinsic factor— Stomach cells secrete the protein intrinsic factor, which binds to vitamin B12 and enables its absorption.
Inadequate stomach acid— Low levels of stomach acid are particularly common among older adults, as well as those regularly taking medications that suppress stomach acid, including proton-pump inhibitors, H2 blockers, or other antacids. Stomach acid is required to release vitamin B12 from food.
Crohn’s disease— damage to the lower segment of the intestinal tract may result in poor vitamin B12 absorption.
Common signs and symptoms of vitamin B12 deficiency include,
Fatigue
Depression and/or irritability
Decreased cognitive function
Heart palpitations
Vision changes
Headache
Methylcobalamin injections are among the most common and effective treatments aimed at preventing and/or reversing vitamin B12 deficiency. Typically prescribed by the treating physician, methylcobalamin is injected intramuscularly (directly into the muscle), thereby bypassing the stomach and allowing absorption directly into the bloodstream.
Methylcobalamin is a member of the B-family of vitamins, which include B1 (thiamine), B2 (riboflavin), B3 (niacin), B5 (pantothenic acid), B6 (pyridoxine), B7 (biotin), and B9 (folic acid). Vitamins B1 through B9 are offered as valuable additions to vitamin C and magnesium IV infusions, to boost efficacy and promote a healthy mind and body.
Acetyl-L-carnitine (ALC) is a naturally occurring amino acid, widely distributed throughout the body with highest concentrations in cardiac and skeletal muscle. High levels may likewise be found in the brain, accounting for the direct influence of ALC on neurotransmitters, like acetylcholine and dopamine. In fact, mounting research demonstrates ALC’s capacity to prevent neural degeneration associated with aging of the brain, via the the preservation of the neurotrophin, nerve growth factor (NGF). Accordingly, ALC is increasingly promoted as an anti-aging and memory-supportive nutrient.
Though healthy individuals generally synthesize enough ALC to prevent deficiency, tissue L-carnitine levels have been found to decline with age. As such, ALC supplementation may be beneficial in preventing and/or reversing age-related cognitive impairment and declines in energy metabolism. Intravenous administration of ALC can safely and effectively correct existing deficiencies, as well as efficiently increase cerebrospinal fluid concentrations of ALC—suggesting ALC readily crosses the blood-brain barrier.
Acetyl-L-Carnitine
Plaquex is a highly purified compound derived from non-GMO soybean phosphatidylcholine. Plaquex is commonly referred to as “essential phospholipids” because it is abundantly bound to essential polyunsaturated fatty acids.
Administered intravenously, essential phospholipids are incorporated into serum lipoproteins, particularly high-density lipoproteins (HDL). This enhances HDL’s capacity for cholesterol uptake from serum (i.e. low-density lipoproteins [LDL]) and tissue (i.e. blood vessel wall) and its transport to the liver for disposal. Scientifically, this process is referred to as reverse cholesterol transport.
This physiological effect is mediated by phospholipid-dependent enzymes, and clinically manifests as reduced serum triglycerides and improved LDL/HDL cholesterol cardiovascular risk ratio.
Phospholipids also constitute the basic structure of cellular membranes. Essential phospholipids incorporated into the membrane of cells and their organelles normalize the cholesterol/phospholipid ratio, which in turn restores membrane fluidity and deformability. This improvement in membrane structure results in optimized membrane-related processes, such as the function of membrane-bound enzymes and the reduction of blood viscosity (rheology). The latter happens due to a decreased tendency of platelets and red blood cells to aggregate, in turn leading to improved microcirculation—a prerequisite to tissue repair.
In summary, Plaquex improves cholesterol-dependent cardiovascular disease risk factors, including lowering triglycerides and optimizing LDL/HDL cholesterol ratio. Moreover, it impacts cholesterol independent risk factors, such as lowering increased blood viscosity.