Unexplainable Vitamin C and the common cold
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Dec 17, 2025 
Daniel M. Davis, a professor of immunology at Imperial College London and author of "Self-Defense: A Myth-Busting Guide to Immune Health," dives into the controversial legacy of Linus Pauling and his promotion of vitamin C as a cure-all. They discuss Pauling's impact on science and the public's fascination with high doses for colds, despite skepticism from the medical community. Davis emphasizes the risks of relying on single-supplement solutions and shares insights from modern trials showing limited benefits, reminding listeners to approach miracle health claims with caution.
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Immune System Is Deeply Layered
- The immune system is immensely complex with layers of regulation across cells, molecules, tissues, and organs.
- Daniel Davis says deep study reveals continual new interactions and rewards contemplative investigation.
From Chemistry Genius To Public Crusader
- Linus Pauling rose to fame through breakthrough chemistry and public activism, winning two Nobel Prizes.
- His stature later enabled him to push controversial public positions beyond mainstream science.
Expertise Doesn’t Guarantee Cross‑Field Accuracy
- Pauling shifted from rigorous chemistry to bold nutritional claims, asserting huge vitamin C doses were harmless and beneficial.
- That leap illustrates how domain expertise doesn't guarantee correct conclusions in more complex biological contexts.