Vitamin C: A 500-Year Scientific Biography from Scurvy to Pseudoscience

Vitamin C: A 500-Year Scientific Biography from Scurvy to Pseudoscience explores the history and science behind vitamin C, from its discovery to the popularization of megadoses to prevent colds.

Format: Hardback
Length: 192 pages
Publication date: 15 September 2022
Publisher: Prometheus Books

Vitamin C: A 500-Year Scientific Biography from Scurvy to Pseudoscience is a captivating exploration of the history and science behind this essential nutrient. The story begins with the devastating impact of scurvy, a disease that plagued Europe for centuries, claiming millions of lives. Despite the known cure from the outset, the persistence of scurvy is a testament to the complex and often baffling factors that shape public health. This journey leads to the development of epidemiology, a scientific field dedicated to understanding the distribution and causes of diseases. Author Stephen M. Sagar, MD, delves into the discovery of vitamins at the turn of the twentieth century, highlighting the rise of a scientific approach to nutrition. However, the story takes unexpected turns, with the popularization of taking megadoses of vitamin C to prevent colds, despite limited evidence to support this claim. This misconception, fueled by celebrity endorsements and marketing tactics, sparked the growth of the $40 billion vitamin and supplement industry.

Throughout this narrative, the book sheds light on the intricate interplay between medical science, public health, and societal beliefs. It features a cast of colorful characters, including swashbuckling sailors, arctic explorers, penny-pinching bureaucrats, and intrepid scientists working in malaria-infested jungle laboratories. The story of vitamin C is, in many ways, a story of how science gets done (and undone). From the trial and error of early explorers to the scientific breakthroughs made by biochemists and the birth of the modern supplement industry, this book offers a revealing perspective on the complex processes that shape scientific progress.

What emerges is a cautionary tale about the influence of cherished beliefs, self-interest, and politics on scientific endeavors. It highlights the need for rigorous scientific research, transparency, and independent oversight to ensure that scientific findings are based on evidence and not influenced by commercial or political interests. Vitamin C: A 500-Year Scientific Biography from Scurvy to Pseudoscience serves as a valuable reminder of the importance of scientific literacy and the critical role of science in shaping our understanding of the world. It encourages readers to be critical of claims made by the media and healthcare industry and to seek out reliable sources of information. By exploring the history and science behind vitamin C, this book provides a deeper appreciation for the complexities and challenges of medical research and the importance of maintaining a scientific perspective in our pursuit of health and well-being.

Weight: 354g
Dimension: 136 x 211 x 27 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781633888265