Elmer McCollum

Elmer Verner McCollum (March 3, 1879 – November 15, 1967) was an American biochemist known for his work on the influence of diet on health. McCollum is credited with the discovery of Vitamins A, B, and Vitamin D, and he was a pioneer in the field of nutrition.

Early Life and Education

McCollum was born in Fort Scott, Kansas. He attended the University of Kansas, where he received his Bachelor's degree in 1903. He then went on to earn his Ph.D. in biochemistry from Yale University in 1906.

Career

After completing his Ph.D., McCollum joined the faculty of the University of Wisconsin-Madison, where he conducted his groundbreaking research on vitamins. In 1913, he and his colleague Marguerite Davis discovered Vitamin A in butterfat and cod liver oil. This was the first time a vitamin had been isolated.

In 1915, McCollum and Davis discovered Vitamin B in rice bran. In 1922, McCollum made another significant discovery when he identified Vitamin D in cod liver oil. His research demonstrated the importance of these vitamins in maintaining health and preventing diseases such as rickets, beriberi, and night blindness.

McCollum also conducted important research on the role of minerals in nutrition. He discovered that certain minerals, including calcium and phosphorus, are essential for growth and development.

In 1928, McCollum left the University of Wisconsin to join the faculty of Johns Hopkins University, where he continued his research on nutrition. He retired in 1944 but remained active in the field of nutrition until his death in 1967.

Legacy

McCollum's work has had a profound impact on the field of nutrition. His discoveries of vitamins A, B, and D have led to significant advancements in our understanding of diet and health. His research has also contributed to the development of nutritional guidelines and dietary recommendations.

See Also

• Vitamin
• Nutrition
• Biochemistry