Intravenous Nutrition

Toronto SEMI has a Naturopathic Doctor who administers Intravenous Nutrition!

Intravenous nutrition, in the form of a modified ‘Myers cocktail’ consists of magnesium, calcium, B vitamins, B12, vitamin C, and trace minerals (including zinc, selenium). It can be used in the treatment of a range of clinical conditions and symptoms, and for optimizing health and well-being.

For optimal health we might imagine that each and every cell in the body requires optimal levels of nutrients in order to carry out its vital functions. Not all cells in the body require the same nutrients, at the same levels. Furthermore, during different situations we may require more of certain nutrients to meet our needs. Without adequate levels of the nutrients each cell needs, function will be compromised and as a result systems in the body become out of balance – leading to potential symptoms and leaving us at risk for developing conditions, injuries, and ill health.

How does IV nutrition work?

For a substance to cross a cell wall, there needs to be a concentration gradient. In other words, a cell deficient in vitamins, needs to be surrounded by a high concentration of that nutrient to enter the cell to exert its therapeutic effect.

Research shows that IV nutrition is more effective than oral dosage in achieving these high concentrations of nutrients surrounding the cell.1 IV nutrition in the form of a modified ‘Myers cocktail’ allows the injection of vital nutrients into the bloodstream. This high concentration allows the nutrient to enter the depleted cells and restore them to optimal levels. This can restore cellular function and overall health.¹
Various nutrients also exert a pharmacological effect at these high concentrations. Vitamin C has well documented antiviral and antihistaminic effects at a concentration achievable with IV but not oral dosing. Such effects have implications for treating acute infections, and various allergic conditions including asthma, rhinitis, and atopic dermatitis among others. Magnesium has a muscular relaxation effect on both bronchial and vascular smooth muscle implicating its effects in cardiovascular disease, peripheral vascular disease, and asthma, in addition to skeletal muscle relaxation effect useful in the case of hypertonic muscles or spasms.^{1, 3}

What does IV nutrition treat?

IV nutrition has been used successfully to treat a number of health conditions including:^1,2,3

Fatigue (including chronic fatigue syndrome)
Musculoskeletal Pain
Promoting Optimal Recovery
Fibromyalgia
Asthma
Acute migraines, Tension and Cluster Headaches
Acute viral/bacterial infections, the IV can be administered during acute infection to speed recovery
Boosting immune function in situations of frequent or recurrent infections
PMS, cramps
Depression, Anxiety
Anti-cancer treatment, as adjunctive care
Skin conditions, including urticaria, eczema, psoriasis, acne
Neurological and vascular health – including peripheral neuropathy, neurogenic pain syndromes, peripheral vascualar health
Visual health, particularly macular degeneration and diabetic retinopathy
Cardiovascular conditions, including acute angina and CHF
Gastrointestinal conditions where nutrient absorption might be compromised including inflammatory bowel diseases (Crohn’s, Colitis), Celiac disease, and irritable bowel syndrome

Intravenous nutrition can be an integral part of your overall health plan in conjunction with your existing healthcare team.

For more information on intravenous nutrition and other Naturopathic options including support and information on engaging in an active and healthy lifestyle please consult Dr Kim Whitaker, ND to see if this treatment might be right for you to support you in achieving optimal health and performance.
Kim.whitaker@semisportmed.com

References:

Massey. Reduction of Fibromyalgia Symptoms through intravenous nutrient therapy: results of a pilot clinical trial. Altern Ther Health Med. 2002. May-Jun; 13(3): 32-4.
Virginia Osborne, ND. Intravenous Nutritional Therapy for Physicians. Toronto, ON, Sept 07.
Gaby. Intravenous Nutrient Therapy: “The ‘Myers’ Cocktail.” Altern Med Review. 2002. Oct; 7(5):389-403

I wanted to take this time to write a bit about my experience at Toronto Semi and the professionalism I received while being treated. Upon entering the front door I was greeted by the manager Roxanne Walsh who was extremely professional, courteous and understanding. The receptionists were very approachable, kind, caring and helpful. I was immediately set up with my physio-therapist Lauren Campbell who was very approachable, friendly and kind. At the early stages of my physio I would have to say it wasn’t fun at all with the amount of pain I was in. Lauren however recognized how much pain I was in and was extremely careful with my shoulder. She gave me exercises to strengthen my tendon. It took about 3-4 months for my shoulder to finally heal with the help of the massage therapist Rick Maceroni. Oh my god is all I have to say! After my first massage I wanted to marry him. I have had a lot of massages in my day but Mr. Maceroni is by far the best I have ever had. I will no longer go to anyone else. All staff were prompt and efficient.

Denise Belanger..

Intravenous Nutrition

How does IV nutrition work?

What does IV nutrition treat?

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