Linus Pauling’s Vitamin C Revolution: The Science They Tried to Ignore

How a Two-Time Nobel Laureate Transformed Our Understanding of Health and Disease

February 28th marks Linus Pauling Day, a time to celebrate one of the greatest scientific minds of the 20th century. Pauling, a two-time Nobel Prize winner, was a pioneer in chemistry, molecular biology, and health advocacy—most notably for his research on vitamin C. Though dismissed for decades, his theories on high-dose vitamin C for immune support and heart health are now being validated by modern research. From preventing common colds to supporting cardiovascular health, Pauling’s work laid the foundation for what we now recognize as orthomolecular medicine. Let’s dive into the science, the controversy, and why Pauling’s legacy remains more relevant than ever.

Linus Pauling, born on February 28, 1901, in Portland, Oregon, was one of the most influential scientists of the 20th century. His pioneering work in chemistry, molecular biology, and medicine earned him two unshared Nobel Prizes—an unmatched achievement. Beyond revolutionizing science, Pauling was a relentless advocate for health, particularly in championing vitamin C. Despite decades of skepticism, his theories on its role in immune function and cardiovascular health have been repeatedly validated by modern research.

A Trailblazer in Chemistry and Molecular Biology

Pauling’s contributions to chemistry laid the groundwork for much of modern science. His 1939 book, The Nature of the Chemical Bond, introduced key concepts such as orbital hybridization and electronegativity, shaping our understanding of how atoms bond to form molecules. His work extended into molecular biology, where he proposed the alpha-helix structure of proteins—an insight that helped pave the way for the discovery of DNA’s double-helix (Pauling, 1954).

The Vitamin C Crusade—And How He Was Proven Right

In 1966, biochemist Irwin Stone introduced Pauling to vitamin C’s potential benefits, sparking a lifelong passion. Five years later, he published Vitamin C and the Common Cold, advocating for doses far beyond the minimal recommended intake. While critics dismissed his claims at the time, modern research supports many of his findings.

Vitamin C is essential for immune function, acting as an antioxidant, reducing inflammation, and aiding recovery from infections. A recent study has revisited Pauling’s work, suggesting that ascorbate (vitamin C) may produce nitric oxide, a compound with potential benefits in preventing and mitigating diseases such as COVID-19 (PubMed, 2023). Today, hospitals administer high-dose intravenous vitamin C for sepsis, respiratory illnesses, and even cancer, proving Pauling’s early insights were ahead of their time (LBL, 1993).

Vitamin C, Heart Disease, and Evolutionary Deficiency

At a 1993 lecture at the Lawrence Berkeley Laboratory, the then-92-year-old Pauling gave an impassioned talk on vitamin C’s role in cardiovascular health. He explained that one of the great misfortunes of human evolution was losing the ability to produce vitamin C internally. Unlike most animals, which synthesize their own vitamin C—often in quantities of 10-12 grams per day—humans must obtain it through diet (LBL, 1993).

Pauling theorized that vitamin C deficiency contributes to heart disease, particularly through its relationship with lipoprotein(a), a substance linked to atherosclerosis. He argued that lipoprotein(a) acts as a surrogate for vitamin C, attempting to strengthen blood vessel walls when vitamin C levels are too low. His research suggested that high doses of vitamin C could help prevent cardiovascular disease by inhibiting plaque formation and reducing lipoprotein(a) production (LBL, 1993).

Pauling personally followed his own advice, increasing his daily vitamin C intake from 3 grams in the 1960s to 18 grams by the 1990s. Today, I take 3,000 mg daily in divided doses because, as Pauling knew, our bodies burn through it quickly—especially under stress.

A Legacy That Still Shapes Science and Medicine

Despite years of being dismissed as a “maverick,” Pauling’s ideas on vitamin C are now widely accepted in integrative and functional medicine. His relentless pursuit of scientific truth and commitment to improving human health have left an enduring impact. The Linus Pauling Institute continues his work, proving that what was once labeled “pseudoscience” is now recognized as forward-thinking brilliance (LBL, 1993).

Linus Pauling wasn’t just a scientist—he was a visionary. And as science catches up to his insights, his legacy only grows stronger.

References:

• Linus Pauling’s 1993 Lecture on Vitamin C: Lawrence Berkeley Laboratory

• Pauling’s Work on Vitamin C and Immune Function: PubMed

• Dr. Sobo '“Brilliant Scientist And Medical Pioneer Talks Vitamin C”