Let's look at the science behind Vitamin C infusions for cancer treatment.
In recent years, the integration of complementary and alternative medicine with conventional cancer treatments has gained considerable attention. Among the emerging therapies is the use of high-dose Vitamin C infusions as a supplement to cancer treatment. Although Vitamin C has long been recognised for its immune-boosting properties, recent studies have highlighted its potential as an anti-cancer agent. This blog explores the scientific basis for Vitamin C infusions in cancer treatment and examines the current understanding of their efficiency and safety.
Why Administer Vitamin C as an Infusion Instead of a Tablet?
Administering Vitamin C as an infusion allows for significantly higher concentrations in the bloodstream compared to tablet form. The gastrointestinal tract does not fully absorb Vitamin C from tablets, leading to unpredictable and lower plasma levels. In contrast, infusions can bypass the digestive system, achieving blood concentrations 30 to 70 times higher than tablets, although these elevated levels last only about two hours due to rapid renal clearance. Studies have demonstrated that Vitamin C infusions are more effective in cancer treatment. For instance, patients who took Vitamin C tablets did not experience any notable response in a major study conducted at the Mayo Clinic.
Reluctance Among Cancer Physicians
Vitamin C protects cellular DNA from damage, whereas the goal of chemotherapy or radiation is to harm or destroy the DNA of tumour cells to inhibit tumour growth. This fundamental conflict explains some reluctance among cancer physicians to administer Vitamin C infusions. However, laboratory research has shown that high dosages of Vitamin C can destroy cancer cells, even though similar results have not been observed in clinical settings. Thus, it is essential to examine both laboratory findings and human studies to understand the effects of Vitamin C on cancer cells.
Effects of Vitamin C on Cancer Cells in Laboratory Studies
Laboratory studies have revealed several ways Vitamin C affects tumour cells. These include:
Starving the Cancer Cell: Vitamin C blocks glucose receptors, depriving the cell of sugar and potentially causing its death.
Depleting Oxygen: Rapidly growing cancer cells often lack sufficient oxygen. High dosages of Vitamin C can deplete the protein HIF-1 Alpha, a crucial survival factor in low-oxygen environments, thus slowing tumour growth.
Reprogramming Natural Cell Death Cycles: Vitamin C can regulate "cell death genes", encouraging programmed cell death in damaged or unnecessary cells. Cancer cells often deactivate these genes, granting them immortality.
Increasing Toxins: Vitamin C may elevate hydrogen peroxide levels within cancer cells, inducing toxicity and damage.
Additional Benefits for Cancer Patients
Vitamin C can help normalise the immune system, which may be compromised by inflammation in cancer patients. By restoring immune function, Vitamin C enables better targeting of cancer cells.
Vitamin C Levels in Cancer Patients
Cancer patients sometimes exhibit lower Vitamin C levels due to factors such as malnutrition, increased metabolic demands, and the effects of chemotherapy and radiation therapy. However, this is not universally true for all cancer patients, and individual variations exist. Ongoing research continues to explore the complex relationship between Vitamin C and cancer.
Clinical Outcomes of Vitamin C Infusions
High-dose Vitamin C injections rarely produce the same dramatic effects in humans as observed in laboratory studies. Nevertheless, current research indicates benefits such as improved quality of life, reduced side-effects from chemotherapy, and enhanced effectiveness of certain chemotherapy drugs.
Recommended Dosage
Oral administration of Vitamin C achieves maximum plasma levels of 3 to 4 mg/100 ml, slightly higher with liposomal formulations. Infusions can reach much higher levels, approximately 50 to 70 times greater. Vitamin C is rapidly excreted by the kidneys, so its elevated concentration lasts only a few hours. Researchers consider infusions the most effective delivery method.
Infusion Procedure
Preparation: Before the infusion, a sterile cannula is inserted into the vein, typically in the arm.
Vitamin C Solution: Prepared ensuring purity and quality.
Administration: Slow infusion delivers the Vitamin C solution directly into the bloodstream, monitored for safety and comfort.
Relaxation: Clinics often provide a serene environment for relaxation during the infusion.
Safety of Vitamin C Injections
When administered by a qualified healthcare professional, Vitamin C injections are generally safe. High doses over prolonged periods can lead to oxalate kidney stones, although the risk is considered low for individuals without prior kidney issues. To ensure safety, blood tests should be conducted before infusions to check for kidney function and 6-glucose-dehydrogenase deficiency. Proper sterile technique must be followed to prevent infections.
To learn more about how you can have IV Therapy here in Northland, click on the 'Infusion Therapy' link at the bottom of this page.