Linus Pauling Vitamin C And The Common Cold
Linus Pauling was a renowned American chemist and biochemist who won two Nobel Prizes for his groundbreaking work in chemistry and peace activism. He was also a firm believer in the power of vitamin C in preventing and treating the common cold.
Who Was Linus Pauling?
Linus Pauling was born on February 28, 1901, in Portland, Oregon. He was a brilliant student who earned his bachelor's degree in chemical engineering from Oregon Agricultural College in 1922 and his Ph.D. in physical chemistry from the California Institute of Technology in 1925.
Pauling was a prolific researcher who made significant contributions to the fields of quantum mechanics, molecular biology, and crystallography. He received numerous awards and honors during his lifetime, including the Nobel Prize in Chemistry in 1954 and the Nobel Peace Prize in 1962.
The Common Cold
The common cold is a viral infection that affects the upper respiratory system. It is characterized by symptoms such as a runny nose, sore throat, cough, and mild fever. The cold is caused by a variety of viruses, but the most common is the rhinovirus.
The common cold is highly contagious and can be spread through contact with infected individuals or by touching contaminated surfaces. There is no cure for the common cold, but over-the-counter medications can help manage the symptoms.
Vitamin C and the Common Cold
Linus Pauling was a strong advocate for the use of vitamin C in preventing and treating the common cold. He believed that high doses of vitamin C could boost the immune system and reduce the severity and duration of cold symptoms.
Pauling conducted several studies on the effects of vitamin C on the common cold, including a double-blind, placebo-controlled trial that involved over 700 students. The study found that students who took a daily dose of vitamin C had fewer colds and shorter durations of symptoms than those who took a placebo.
However, not all studies have supported Pauling's claims about the benefits of vitamin C. Some studies have found no significant difference in cold symptoms between those who take vitamin C and those who do not.
Recommended Daily Allowance of Vitamin C
The recommended daily allowance of vitamin C for adults is 75-90 mg per day. However, some experts recommend higher doses of vitamin C for people with certain health conditions or for those who are at risk of developing a cold, such as frequent travelers or people who work in crowded environments.
It is important to note that high doses of vitamin C can cause side effects such as diarrhea and stomach cramps. It is always best to consult with a healthcare professional before taking any supplements or making significant changes to your diet.
Conclusion
Linus Pauling was a visionary scientist who made significant contributions to the fields of chemistry and biochemistry. He was also a strong advocate for the use of vitamin C in preventing and treating the common cold.
While some studies have supported Pauling's claims about the benefits of vitamin C, others have not. It is important to maintain a balanced diet and consult with a healthcare professional before taking any supplements or making significant changes to your diet.