The human immune system is a truly amazing thing. It protects us from the daily attacks of viruses and bacteria with a balanced, proportional response that kills the invaders without killing us. But in certain circumstances, the immune system can respond in a manner out of all proportion to the actual threat, ultimately doing more harm than good. Mental stress and fear exacerbate the overactive immune response through modulation of the stress hormone cortisol and inflammatory factors called cytokines.
An overactive immune response is the main life-threatening danger for patients with COVID-19. The medical community still has a lot to learn about coronavirus, but from what we now know, most deaths from the virus happen when the body’s own immune response causes Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome, or ARDS. This respiratory distress syndrome arises from immune overreaction that causes an immense buildup of fluid in the lungs. The fluid prevents oxygen from reaching the blood, starving the body’s organs of this much needed fuel and eventually leading to death.
What can we do?
We need our immune systems to respond strongly to infection, but there are ways to modulate that response so it remains helpful, not hurtful.
Vitamin C
Vitamin C, given at appropriate dosages, has strong antiviral and antibacterial effects. The presence of large amounts of Vitamin C in the blood causes viruses and bacteria to produce hydrogen peroxide, a substance that kills them. Right now, intravenous Vitamin C infusions are being used all over the world in the fight against coronavirus.
High doses of IV Vitamin C, between 50 and 100 grams, can even have anti-cancer benefits (National Cancer Institute). Mid-range dosages of 25 – 50 grams have been shown to have strong antiviral properties. Unfortunately, oral Vitamin C supplementation will never result in the blood concentrations necessary to see these effects. The most we can comfortably absorb is about 3 grams. IV infusion is necessary.
Glutathione
Glutathione is the body’s most powerful and important antioxidant. Antioxidants work like the garbage truck of the body, effectively “taking out the trash” by removing damaging oxidative radicals and thereby allowing a drop in the unhealthy inflammation that results from immune system overreaction.
As with Vitamin C, the efficacy and availability of glutathione increases exponentially when given in an intravenous infusion. Oral dosages are limited by our gastrointestinal tolerance and our ability to absorb nutrients. Studies also show that it takes an extended amount of time for oral glutathione supplements to show effects.
Right now, we don’t have the luxury of time.
To help in the fight against coronavirus, my practice offers IV Vitamin C and Glutathione, along with a wide range of preventive and treatment-based infusion protocols, individually customized for each patient’s needs. These IV treatments are offered in our office or in the patient’s home.
Dr. Roxanna Namavar, PrettyHealthyNYC.com, @prettyhealthy.nyc
*If you suspect you have COVID-19, call your doctor or local hospital immediately to obtain testing and treatment. If you have difficulty breathing, call your local ER.
*It is important to have an intravenous infusion administered by a licensed medical professional, who has reviewed your health history and has appropriate sourcing of intravenous solutions and supplements.