4 Supplements You Should Be Storing in the Refrigerator according to dietitians

 4 

Supplements You Should Be Storing in the 

Refrigerator according to dietitians

The Essential Guide to Refrigerating Supplements: Maximize Freshness and Potency

Introduction:

To maintain the freshness and effectiveness of your supplements, refrigeration can be crucial. Similar to how a decadent cheesecake requires chilling to preserve its ideal flavor and texture, some supplements thrive in cooler conditions. By storing these top five supplements in your refrigerator, you can ensure they remain at their peak potency. Continue reading to discover which supplements need refrigeration and why it's essential for their preservation.

Why Certain Supplements Need Refrigeration: Key 

Insights for Maximum Potency

It's essential to follow the storage instructions on your supplement labels to ensure their maximum effectiveness. Proper storage is vital for maintaining the potency and efficacy of supplements. According to Jamie Adams, M.S., RD, owner of Mamaste Nutrition, "Environmental factors such as heat, humidity, and oxygen can significantly impact the potency and formulation of specific supplements."

While many supplements are designed to be shelf-stable, certain types require refrigeration due to their sensitive ingredients or live microorganisms. Research published in Pathogens highlights how thermal inactivation can affect probiotic lactic acid bacteria and their postbiotics, underscoring the need for cooler storage conditions.

However, not all supplements benefit from being refrigerated. In some cases, refrigeration can introduce excess moisture, which may degrade the product. This is why it's crucial to read and adhere to the storage guidelines provided on the label.

4 Supplements You Should Be Storing in the

 Refrigerator

1. Fish Oil

Fish oil supplements are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which are highly susceptible to oxidation when exposed to heat, light, and air.

 This oxidation process can significantly diminish the quality of the oil, resulting in a stale smell and taste, as well as a reduction in nutritional value. Melissa Groves Azzaro, RDN, owner of The Hormone Dietitian, emphasizes, "Generally, cooler temperatures help protect the delicate oils from rancidity, extend the potency of the supplement, and inhibit potential microbial growth."

2. Probiotics

Probiotics are packed with live microorganisms beneficial for gut health, but these beneficial bacteria are sensitive to temperature changes. "Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium are particularly vulnerable to heat and require refrigeration to stay viable," explains Carrie Gabriel, M.S., RDN, a California-based culinary dietitian. Exposure to heat can cause these delicate bacteria to perish, reducing the effectiveness of the probiotic supplement.

Refrigerating probiotics ensures that the beneficial bacteria remain potent, supporting digestive health, immune function, and a balanced gut microbiome. However, not all probiotic strains require refrigeration; some are formulated to be stable at room temperature. Always refer to the label for specific storage instructions to maximize the efficacy of your probiotics.

3. Liquid Iron

If your healthcare provider advises you to take an iron supplement for low iron levels, they may recommend liquid iron in some cases. It's important to store these bottles in the refrigerator. 

According to Jamie Adams, liquid vitamins, including liquid iron, should be refrigerated to maintain freshness and potency. Cooler temperatures slow down oxidative processes that can degrade iron, ensuring it remains effective. Additionally, keeping liquid iron cold helps preserve its taste and prevents the formation of unpleasant odors.

4. Vitamin C

While most individuals maintain healthy levels of vitamin C, it's essential to understand that this nutrient is quite sensitive to environmental factors. Heat, light, and air can all cause vitamin C to degrade easily. 

While storing these supplements in a cool, dark place can help maintain their potency, refrigeration is not strictly required. However, in warmer climates or for extended storage periods, refrigeration can be beneficial in preserving the effectiveness of vitamin C supplements.

The Bottom Line:

While not all dietary supplements necessitate refrigeration, for those that do, correct storage is paramount to preserving their efficacy. Probiotics, liquid vitamins and fish oils are notably sensitive to heat and light and should be refrigerated to safeguard their potency.

 Always consult the label and adhere to the manufacturer's storage guidelines diligently. By ensuring proper storage conditions for these supplements, you can optimize their advantages and bolster your overall health.