The use of liquid IV hydration isn’t new to the world of medicine. However, in the past couple of years, IV therapy has grown in popularity as a health and longevity treatment. Athletes, celebrities, and everyday people swear by the benefits of receiving their vitamins and nutrients intravenously.

However, many people remain skeptical about IV hydration therapy, particularly regarding the efficacy of IV infusions over oral vitamin supplements.

Let’s explore the key differences between IV supplementation and taking oral vitamins.

Oral Vitamin Absorption

It’s a common belief that taking an oral supplement will give your body all the vitamins it needs, in addition to what you absorb through food. However, the digestive system is not perfect, and depending on the supplement and the individual taking it, as little as 10% may be absorbed. The absorption timeline may also be quite lengthy for oral supplements, as it can take several hours for vitamins to be absorbed this way.

Additionally, certain health conditions can affect the rate and efficacy of oral vitamin absorption.

IV Drip Absorption

Nutrient administration via IV differs significantly from oral supplementation. When vitamins and nutrients enter the bloodstream directly, they are absorbed almost immediately because they do not have to pass through the digestive tract. This route also enables the body to absorb nearly 100% of the nutrition provided.

A vitamin drip provides the body with the exact amount of essential nutrients it needs, and because the nutrients do not have to be digested, there is no wait time between the fluids reaching the bloodstream and the absorption of nutrients.

Vitamin Drip Hydration

One of the most sought-after effects of IV therapy is the immediate hydration provided. Many of us don’t drink enough water throughout the day, and when we take oral vitamins, we often do so with a swallow or two of water.

Having an IV drip therapy session provides the body with the essential nutrients it needs and works to rehydrate organs and tissues instantly. While IV therapy does not replace drinking a sufficient amount of water, it can help rehydrate your body after an illness or injury.

Finally, liquid IV hydration is far more customizable than oral supplementation. Infusions can be mixed specifically for the patient, meaning that patients can utilize therapies that are as unique as they are.

If you’d like to learn more about the benefits of IV therapy, reach out to our team at R2 Medical Clinic. Our medical providers will walk you through the process, answer all of your questions, and help you determine whether IV drip therapy is right for you.