Vitamin C infusions: An effective method for health promotion

Vitamin C infusions: An effective method for health promotion

Vitamin C, also known as L-ascorbic acid, is an essential molecule found in numerous foods and consumed by many people as a dietary supplement. But why is the method of vitamin C infusions also used, in which this omnipresent vitamin is injected directly into the bloodstream? This article answers these and other questions about vitamin C infusions.

The essential importance of vitamin C

Vitamins are organic compounds that are essential for us humans because our bodies cannot produce them in sufficient quantities. Vitamin C is the chemical name for L-ascorbic acid, a glucose-like compound that is a biologically active form of ascorbic acid.

Unlike most animals, humans and a few other species, such as guinea pigs, cannot produce vitamin C ourselves. This explains why these animal species primarily feed on food rich in vitamin C and why a deficiency of this vitamin occurs relatively frequently in humans. Deficiency can occur particularly in pets or captive animals that are fed a diet low in vitamin C.

The central role of vitamin C in our body

Vitamin C is a water-soluble micronutrient that we humans cannot survive without. It is present in high concentrations in various organs and structures of our body, including the brain and nerve cells, immune system structures, eye lenses, liver and kidneys.

Vitamin C plays a central role in many metabolic processes. It is involved in metabolic processes of the hormonal and nervous systems, helps regulate fat metabolism and supports the formation and maintenance of bones and connective tissue. In addition, it plays an important role in our immune system by supporting the defensive activity of immune cells and intercepting free radicals that can damage our cells or promote disease.

In times of stress, inflammatory diseases or after serious injuries, the need for vitamin C may be increased. People who are exposed to severe physical or psychological stress, such as smokers or competitive athletes, also need more vitamin C. In such situations, animals are able to simply produce more vitamin C to cover the increased consumption. However, the human body does not have this ability, which often leads to insufficient intake of vitamin C, especially in stressful situations where a balanced diet is often neglected.

Effects of vitamin C deficiency

A vitamin C deficiency can have a variety of negative effects on the body. Initially, a deficiency often manifests itself through symptoms such as fatigue, reduced performance, longer recovery times after illnesses and irritability. If the deficiency is severe, the blood vessels can lose elasticity and become brittle, which can lead to bleeding, especially in the mucous membranes and muscles. The gums can also become inflamed.

Applications of vitamin C infusions

In naturopathic practices, high-dose vitamin C infusion therapy is used for complaints and illnesses that are associated with a vitamin C deficiency. These include, among other things, reduced performance and fatigue, circulatory disorders, chronic inflammatory diseases, absorption disorders, operations and oxidative stress in smokers.

Benefits of Vitamin C Infusions

Many people take vitamin C in tablet or powder form to boost their immune system. However, the amount that can be absorbed through the digestive tract is limited. Too high a dose of vitamin C is excreted undigested, which usually manifests itself in the form of diarrhea.

With infusion therapy, on the other hand, vitamin C enters the bloodstream directly and does not have to be absorbed by the intestinal mucous membranes. This allows for more effective use, especially for people with reduced intestinal absorption capacity.

In summary, vitamin C infusions are a valuable method of treating vitamin C deficiency and can help improve our health and well-being. It is important to consult a professional before choosing this therapy to ensure safe and effective treatment.