79: Immune Health Hacks: Vitamin C Exposed!

Is Vitamin C really the immune-boosting miracle it’s often claimed to be? In this episode of the Primal Shift podcast, we explore whether it’s overhyped and ineffective, or something you should actually consider adding to your supplement stack. 

While this powerful antioxidant is crucial for your body’s defenses and supports collagen production, skin health and cellular repair, its effectiveness isn’t as clear-cut as many believe. After all, while research shows that high doses of Vitamin C can slightly reduce the duration of colds, there’s little evidence that it prevents them entirely. 

Plus, the source of your Vitamin C matters. Whole food sources like citrus fruits and organ meats often outperform synthetic supplements because they come with cofactors that improve vitamin absorption and utilization. 

If you’re following a nutrient-dense, animal-based diet, your Vitamin C needs may already be lower, as such diets reduce oxidative stress and limit the competition between carbs and Vitamin C for absorption.

But true immune health doesn’t rely on one nutrient alone; it’s built on daily habits that support your body’s natural defenses. Sunlight exposure for Vitamin D, cold plunging to activate shock proteins, and sauna bathing to repair cells are just a few examples of powerful tools to keep your immune system functioning optimally. Pairing these practices with regular exercise, quality sleep, and an animal-based diet creates a holistic approach to staying healthy, even during cold and flu season.

For me, freeze-dried organ supplements fill in any nutritional gaps when fresh organ meats aren’t available. Packed with immune-supporting nutrients like zinc, selenium, and Vitamin A, they’re an easy way to supercharge your diet. And while Vitamin C can play a supporting role in immune health, it’s not a standalone solution. Focusing on nutrient-dense foods and consistent daily habits will always have a bigger impact on your overall well-being.

So, does Vitamin C work? Yes, but the bigger takeaway is that health is about the whole picture, not just one supplement. By building strong foundations with your diet and lifestyle, you can support your body’s natural ability to thrive year-round. 

Learn more:

Download my free Animal Based Diet Food & Beverage List: https://michaelkummer.com/food-list/ 

Health Benefits of Eating Organ Meat: https://michaelkummer.com/organ-meat-benefits/

Listen to Primal Shift Podcast #52: Grass-Fed vs. Conventional Beef: Vitamin and Fatty Acid Comparison: https://www.primalshiftpodcast.com/52-grass-fed-vs-conventional-beef-vitamin-and-fatty-acid-comparison/ 

Thank you to this episode’s sponsor, Peluva!

Peluva makes minimalist shoes to support optimal foot, back and joint health. I started wearing Peluvas several months ago, and I haven’t worn regular shoes since. I encourage you to consider trading your sneakers or training shoes for a pair of Peluvas, and then watch the health of your feet and lower back improve while reducing your risk of injury. 

To learn more about why I love Peluva barefoot shoes, check out my in-depth review and use code KUMMER to get 15% off your first pair.

In this episode:

00:00 - Intro

01:30 - Does vitamin C prevent illness?

02:43 - Synthetic vs. Whole food vitamin C

03:58 - Daily habits for a strong immune system

05:39 - Final thoughts

Find me on social media for more health and wellness content:

• Website: https://michaelkummer.com/

• YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@MichaelKummer

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/primalshiftpodcast/

• Reddit: https://www.reddit.com/r/michaelkummer/

• Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/michaelkummer/

• Twitter/X: https://twitter.com/mkummer82

• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/realmichaelkummer/

[Medical Disclaimer]

The information shared on this video is for educational purposes only, is not a substitute for the advice of medical doctors or registered dietitians (which I am not) and should not be used to prevent, diagnose, or treat any condition. Consult with a physician before starting a fitness regimen, adding supplements to your diet, or making other changes that may affect your medications, treatment plan, or overall health.

[Affiliate Disclaimer]

I earn affiliate commissions from some of the brands and products I review on this channel. While that doesn't change my editorial integrity, it helps make this channel happen. If you’d like to support me, please use my affiliate links or discount code.

#PrimalShift #OptimalHealth #AncestralLiving #CarnivoreDiet #BeefDiet #AnimalBasedDiet #OrganMeats #VitaminC