Studies show supplementation plays a key role in potentially preventing and treating COVID-19. As more and more of us are adding vitamins such as vitamin D, zinc and omega-3 to our daily regimen, it is important to understand how to properly store supplements to maintain their optimal freshness as you work toward optimal health.
Temperature and Humidity
The impact of temperature and humidity on supplements has been studied over the years. One such study conducted by food scientists at Purdue University found vitamin C showed signs of deterioration when humidity levels rose to 80 percent and higher.
As heat and humidity can degrade supplements, Cooper Complete products have the following recommendation printed on the bottle label: “For optimal storage conditions, store in a cool, dry place (59° – 77° F/15°-25° C) (35-65% relative humidity).”
Selecting the Ideal Place to Store Your Vitamins and Supplements
Storing vitamins where you can see them serves as a reminder to take them. However, the temperature and humidity of that location is critical. A good rule of thumb is to store vitamins and supplements in a place you yourself would be the most physically comfortable—with the optimal location being not too hot, not too cold, not too dry and not too humid.
- In the Bathroom
The bathroom suffers from major humidity issues and temperature changes. Each time the supplement bottle is opened, the contents in the bottle are potentially exposed to higher than recommended levels of humidity. Storing the supplements in the medicine cabinet can also be problematic depending upon how much time is spent in front of the cabinet mirror with the hot water running and razor in hand for the morning shave. If you typically store your supplements in the bathroom, the linen cabinet or closet is a better option. - In the Bedroom
Light, heat and humidity affect quality and potency so the bedroom is an ideal place to store supplements as it is usually cool, dark and dry. - In the Kitchen
Storing supplements in the kitchen can be dicey. Both temperature and humidity can vary widely near or above the stove, oven and sink. Although most vitamins and supplements do not require refrigeration, the refrigerator is an ideal place to house sticky softgels, as cooler temperatures (35° F /1.6° C) make softgels firmer and eliminate stickiness. However, be sure to fully close the bottle lids to prevent too much humidity from getting in. Since most supplements are best absorbed with food, the kitchen table or island can provide a great visual reminder for you to take your vitamins. A kitchen cabinet or counter is also acceptable as long as it isn’t near water or heat. - At the Office
Many Cooper employees keep their vitamins and supplements on their desk or in a drawer or cabinet in their office. This is not only a safe space for supplements as office temperatures stay fairly constant, but is also a practical place to keep them within reach with the bottle remaining in eyesight to serve as a reminder to take their daily dose. - In the Car
Avoid leaving your supplements in the car especially in extreme summer and winter temperatures. While softgels disintegrate in high temperatures, tablets lose their potency as extreme temperatures oxidize and degrade the ingredients. To preserve quality and potency, it is recommended to not store supplements in your car.
Taking the right supplements for you to achieve optimal health is one of Dr. Kenneth Cooper’s 8 Steps to Get Cooperized. Because temperature and humidity affect the efficacy of vitamins and supplements, remember to evaluate the environment when selecting where you’ll store them.
If you are thinking about adding vitamin D, zinc and omega-3 to your daily regimen to potentially protect yourself from COVID-19, remember that your physician understands your health profile best. It is important to talk to him or her about which supplements are best for you.
