One of the most notable vitamins offered through IV therapy is the antioxidant powerhouse, Vitamin C. Vitamin C, also known as ascorbic acid is a necessary nutrient for building collagen which is an important protein needed in the body for building healthy bones, skin, muscles and ligaments.
Vitamin C gained its notoriety during the 1970s when double Nobel laureate, Linus Pauling promoted daily megadoses as a preventative measure against viruses and some chronic diseases. Decades later, current research now proves just how important Vitamin C is in immune function and preventing oxidative stress. Vitamin C is a water-soluble nutrient which means the body is unable to store it and it is recommended that you consume this vitamin daily.
Vitamin C is integral to wound healing and controlling infections. Due to its powerful antioxidant nature, Vitamin C can also neutralize harmful free radicals. Ascorbic acid also assists in the production of hormones as well as helping chemical messengers throughout the brain and nervous system. This powerful antioxidant also improves the absorption of nonheme iron, which is a type of iron found in leafy green vegetables.
Studies have indicated that supplementing with vitamin C during a cold may help reduce the symptoms or severity of the illness, especially when taken on the onset of the cold. Vitamin C is also a crucial nutrient for times when the body is under stress. Research shows that when the body is under stress, vitamin C quickly depletes cells – especially during times of active infection or intense physical exertion. Ascorbic acid also facilitates the production of white blood cells which are a necessary component in fighting infection.
By increasing the body’s ability to make collagen, vitamin C is also touted as an anti-aging supplement. By reducing free-radicals, vitamin C neutralizes oxidative stress which may lead to the premature aging of cells. Free-radicals are destructive to proteins, fats, and DNA and break down collagen which may lead to the physical appearance of wrinkles and aging.
Lower than optimal levels of vitamin C have been shown to increase certain conditions such as high blood pressure, incidents of stroke, some cancers, the buildup of plaque in blood vessels which may lead to heart attack and stroke. While the research is inconclusive on whether or not vitamin C prevents heart attack and stroke, the data indicates that vitamin C does help in the prevention of the buildup of plaque which may lead to heart disease.