Linus Pauling Vitamin C And The Common Cold Pdf
Introduction
Linus Pauling is a famous American chemist and biochemist who is known for his work on the nature of chemical bonds and the structure of molecules. However, he is also well-known for his advocacy of high-dose vitamin C for the prevention and treatment of the common cold.
The Common Cold
The common cold is a viral infection that affects the upper respiratory tract. It is one of the most common illnesses in the world, and it is estimated that adults can have two to four colds per year, while children can have up to twelve.
The symptoms of the common cold include a runny nose, sore throat, cough, and congestion. Although the common cold is usually not serious, it can cause discomfort and disrupt daily activities.
Vitamin C and the Common Cold
Vitamin C, also known as ascorbic acid, is a water-soluble vitamin that is essential for the growth and repair of tissues in the body. It is also a powerful antioxidant that can protect cells from damage caused by free radicals.
In the 1970s, Linus Pauling became interested in the potential of high-dose vitamin C for the prevention and treatment of the common cold. He believed that vitamin C could boost the immune system and reduce the severity and duration of cold symptoms.
The Vitamin C and the Common Cold PDF
In 1970, Linus Pauling published a book called "Vitamin C and the Common Cold" in which he presented his theories and research on the subject. The book contained a chapter on the use of high-dose vitamin C for the prevention and treatment of the common cold.
The book was controversial, and many experts criticized Pauling's claims. However, it became a bestseller, and it helped to popularize the idea of using vitamin C for the common cold.
Research on Vitamin C and the Common Cold
Over the years, there have been many studies on the use of vitamin C for the prevention and treatment of the common cold. Some studies have found that vitamin C can reduce the severity and duration of cold symptoms, while others have found no benefit.
One of the most famous studies on the subject was a meta-analysis published in 2007 that analyzed 30 randomized controlled trials involving more than 11,000 participants. The study found that taking vitamin C supplements did not reduce the incidence of colds in the general population, but it did reduce the duration and severity of cold symptoms in people who were under high physical stress, such as athletes and soldiers.
Conclusion
Although the evidence on the effectiveness of vitamin C for the common cold is mixed, many people continue to use it as a preventive or treatment measure. Linus Pauling's advocacy of high-dose vitamin C for the common cold has certainly contributed to the popularity of this approach.