The popularity of supplements and intravenous therapy has been growing rapidly in the healthcare community for some time. While some people use these methods to supplement their already balanced and healthy lifestyle, others attempt to compensate for poor dietary habits in an effort to reduce their risk of developing chronic diseases. In the United States, nearly half of the adult population takes some form of multivitamin or supplement, many of which are not regulated by the FDA. And in 2021, Americans spent nearly $50 billion on vitamins and dietary supplements.

By equipping yourself with the right knowledge base, you will not only avoid potentially dangerous products, but you can also ensure that what you consume is beneficial.

The benefits of supplements

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Vitamins and minerals are essential to help your body feel and function at its best. Ideally, people should be able to get all the necessary nutrients they need from a healthy, balanced diet rich in plant foods. However, sometimes supplements are needed because they can provide you with specific nutrients that may be lacking in your diet. Supplements are generally considered safe because they contain only a small amount of each nutrient. However, unless someone has a specific deficiency, it might not be worth spending a ton of money on expensive supplements.

The Benefits of IV Therapy

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Intravenous (IV) therapy is considered the most effective way to give your body the nutrition it needs and has gained popularity among many health conscious people. This process allows vitamins to enter your bloodstream directly and bypass digestion. Many people prefer this method over taking supplements because it gives you faster results that can last longer.

Intravenous therapy can also be fully customized to meet a person’s specific health needs and treat vitamin deficiency. This process allows your body to use nutrients immediately while providing you with extra hydration so you can feel your best. IV therapy can also be used to help relieve hangover symptoms, cleanse your body of toxins and free radicals, and increase energy levels.

So which is the most effective?

Both oral and intravenous supplements provide the body with essential nutrients, but is one more effective than the other?

There are a few important differences to be aware of before making a decision.

Since IV therapy fluid is delivered directly into your vein, the nutrients immediately enter your bloodstream. Oral supplements, on the other hand, have to pass through your digestive system, which takes longer than its counterpart, and this process can slightly decrease the quality of nutrients your body absorbs. Some people may also be sensitive to certain oral supplements as they can irritate the digestive tract and cause stomach upset.

The truth is, every individual is different, and it comes down to preference. Therefore, the best thing to do is to consult a doctor and seek professional advice on what is best for you.

Carry

Whatever your goal when taking supplements, there’s one thing we know for sure: supplements and intravenous therapy will never replace a healthy, nutrient-dense diet. Supplements should never be used in place of real food. A nutrient-dense diet should always come first!

Check out this ultimate guide to learn more about plant-based nutrition!

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