The “Vitamin C” Chronicles of a Chocolate Taoist ™

My 45-Year Love Affair with this Nutritional Wonder

Ever since my sophomore year as a nutrition major at The Ohio State University, I've been on a near-mythical quest with Vitamin C, a journey sparked by the dynamic duo of Durk Pearson and Sandy Shaw, and their pioneering company, Life Extension.

Back then, as a teenager awash in the blossoming field of nutritional science, my fascination quickly grew into a full-blown obsession, especially under the towering influence of Dr. Linus Pauling. Pauling, a titan in the scientific community, advocated the formidable power of Vitamin C, particularly its potential to produce interferon and fend off cancer through antioxidant properties.

Fast forward through the decades, and here I am, 45 years into a daily regimen of 2,000 mg of Vitamin C, a ritual I credit for my seemingly ageless vitality and robust health. Through these years, my dedication has only deepened, morphing from simple curiosity to an integral part of my life philosophy.

Pauling's theories on megadoses of Vitamin C were revolutionary, positing that high doses could significantly boost the immune system by stimulating the production of interferon, a protein pivotal in the defense against infections and cancer. This was groundbreaking during a time when the relationship between vitamins and immune function was still a fledgling field. 

Pauling's work, although sometimes contentious, pushed the boundaries of traditional medical thought and opened up new vistas in preventive health strategies.

My daily dose is a testament to these early influences, particularly as I've navigated the wealth of information and the evolution of products over the years. Currently, my choice is the Solaray brand of liposomal Vitamin C. 

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This isn't just any Vitamin C supplement; the liposomal form is a game changer in how the body absorbs and utilizes this essential nutrient. Liposomes are tiny spheres of fat used to encapsulate the vitamin, enhancing its entry into the bloodstream and cells. This method is believed to mimic the natural cellular process, thereby maximizing the vitamin’s bioavailability.

This heightened absorption is crucial because Vitamin C is water-soluble and not well stored in the body, necessitating daily replenishment to support various bodily functions including collagen production and iron absorption—not to mention its role in immune defense.

However, while I advocate for Vitamin C passionately, I'm also acutely aware of the nuances and debates surrounding its use. The discourse on Vitamin C is laden with both fervent testimonials and skeptical critics. 

High doses, as recommended by Pauling, are often debated by the medical community. Concerns typically center on potential side effects like gastrointestinal distress or the risk of oxalate kidney stones in susceptible individuals. Such discussions are vital, as they underscore the importance of balance and caution in even the most well-intentioned health regimens.

My approach has always been informed by a combination of scientific curiosity, personal health narratives, and evolving research. Despite the controversies, the empirical evidence of my own health—bolstered by an absence of serious health conditions of any kind and my youthful energy—serves as a powerful personal endorsement of Vitamin C’s efficacy.

The ongoing research into liposomal technology and its impact on nutrient delivery continues to excite me. It represents a new frontier in how we understand and optimize nutrient intake. This innovative approach could potentially extend beyond Vitamin C, offering new pathways for delivering other vital nutrients more efficiently.

My journey with Vitamin C is more than a personal health strategy; it's a reflection of a broader shift towards preventive healthcare and a testament to the pioneers who dared to think differently about nutrition. From my early days at Ohio State, inspired by Pearson and Shaw’s innovative spirit, to my adherence to Pauling’s groundbreaking theories, my path has been one of exploration, conviction, and, above all, health.

As we advance, the narrative of Vitamin C within the context of health and nutrition will inevitably evolve. But for now, I remain a steadfast advocate, continually inspired by the past and eager for the scientific revelations of the future. Here's to another 45 years of youthful vigor, with a glass of fortified juice firmly in hand.