While intravenous (IV) vitamin therapy is not a new treatment, it has gained popularity in South Africa over the last few years with an increasing amount of public figures and sports stars receiving regular treatments.
It involves the infusion of vitamins and minerals and promises a range of benefits, including a boost in energy levels, immunity and fertility among many others.
In desperate need of a pick-me-up, I decided to give it a go at The IV Bar. Keep reading for more on my experience and thoughts on the treatment.
What exactly is intravenous vitamin therapy?
Intravenous vitamin therapy is the process in which nutrients and vitamins are delivered directly to your bloodstream, allowing them to be absorbed quickly and efficiently.
The IV Bar offers a range of customised drips, each with their own benefits: The Anti-inflammatory/Auto-immune Drip, Detox Drip, Energy Boost Drip, Fertility Drip, Hangover and Jet Lag recovery Drip, Skin Radiance Drip and more.
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My experience
After securing an appointment and making my way to the Sea Point branch in Cape Town, I was welcomed by friendly staff and advised on which drip would be best suited to my needs.
I opted for the Jetfuel Drip that, according to The IV Bar website, “boosts energy, mood, immune system, performance and skin tone, all while detoxing and hydrating your body from within” – just what I needed as end of year fatigue was quickly setting in.
I was seated in a comfy chair and a registered nurse checked my blood pressure before beginning the process of administering the drip – a combination of Vitamin B12, Vitamin B Complex, Magnesium, Vitamin C, Glutathione and electrolytes, all packed into 1L of rehydrating fluid for additional electrolytes and complete rehydration.
It took some time for her to find a suitable vein to use but once she did, the needle was quickly inserted and secured with micropore tape.
About halfway through the treatment, my vein wasn’t having it and we had to the location of the drip. The thought of being poked again was a bit daunting but the nurse was calm, gentle and professional which, in turn, made me feel comfortable and at ease. She found a vein in my hand through which the rest of the solution was administered.
Treatments can last up to one hour, during which time you can connect to the free WiFi and catch up on work or just use the time to relax. My treatment took a little longer, as we had to switch up the location of the drip, but it allowed me to switch off for a bit.
Once the treatment was complete, the drip was removed and I was sent on my way. With no down-time at all, I was able to leave and carry on with my day like normal.
Result
While I was left a little bruised, I experienced a very welcome and noticeable change in my mood and energy levels the day after the treatment. Throughout the month, I was less irritable, I felt less fatigued than before, and had a lot more energy.
All in all, the Jetfuel drip definitely gave me the push I needed to finish off 2021 strong and start 2022 with increased energy and motivation.
If you’re looking for an energy boost, I’d definitely recommend trying it out.
Top tip: If you’re like me and have ‘hard to find’ veins, it is advised to drink some water and eat a meal before your appointment in order to make your veins more visible and easier to feel.
Find out more about The IV Bar
The IV Bar has branches in Johannesburg, Cape Town, Nelspruit and Pretoria. Click here to find a branch near you or visit https://www.theivbar.co.za/ for more information.
Want to stay up to date with their latest news, specials and giveaways? Follow them on Instagram and Facebook.
*Note: This is not medical advice, rather a review on my experience.
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