Where Do You Keep Your Supplements?

Paula Gallagher on
Although the bathroom or the Where you store your supplements can affect their effectiveness.kitchen may be the most convenient place to keep your supplements and medications, research shows that high humidity degrades the vitamins and health supplements stored in those rooms, even if the lids are on tight.

In fact, subjecting certain products, such as vitamin C, to humidity can chemically change their composition, reducing or eliminating the health benefits associated with those products. Crystalline substances – including vitamin C, some vitamin B forms and other dietary supplements – are prone to a process called deliquescence, in which humidity causes a water-soluble solid to dissolve.

Keeping those supplements away from warm, humid environments can help ensure their effectiveness. So where should you store vitamins?

Guidelines for Storing Supplements

Here are some general guidelines regarding storing your nutritional supplements and medications.

    1. Follow the instructions

    Read the labels or packaging of your medications and supplements carefully. They often provide specific storage instructions, including recommended temperature ranges and any special considerations.

    2. Room temperature storage

    Most medications and supplements can be stored at room temperature, typically between 68°F (20°C) and 77°F (25°C). Keep them in a dry area, such as a cabinet or drawer, away from direct sunlight, humidity, and heat sources like stoves or radiators.

    3. Refrigerator storage

    Some medications, particularly certain liquid forms, require refrigeration to maintain their stability. Check the instructions or consult your pharmacist if you're unsure. Make sure to store them in a dedicated compartment or section of the refrigerator away from food items and to prevent freezing.

    4. Bathroom storage precautions

    While the bathroom may be a convenient location, it's not always the best place for storing medications and supplements. Bathrooms tend to have fluctuating humidity levels and can become hot and steamy during showers, which can degrade the effectiveness and stability of medications.

    5. Childproof storage

    If you have children, it's crucial to store medications and supplements out of their reach and in childproof containers. Consider using lockable cabinets or drawers, particularly for potentially harmful substances.

    6. Travel considerations

    When traveling, ensure that your medications and supplements are stored securely in their original containers. Avoid exposing them to extreme temperatures, especially if you're traveling to a hot or cold climate. If necessary, you can use insulated bags or coolers to maintain the appropriate temperature during transit.

    Remember, it's essential to regularly check the expiration dates of medications and supplements and safely dispose of any expired or unused products. If you need to dispose of old or unneeded prescription medications, don't put them in the trash or flush them down your sink or toilet – instead use a safe disposal method, such as Village Green Apothecary's medication disposal program, MedSafe™. And if you have specific concerns or questions about the storage of a particular medication or supplement, talk to one of our pharmacists for guidance.

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