**Denver's Vitamin C: Altitude Stealing Gummy Potency?**

By Franklin Everett Shaw

November 3, 2025

Forget everything you think you know about Vitamin C gummies. They’re not just for kids or warding off the common cold. In Denver, Colorado, these seemingly innocent supplements face a unique gauntlet of environmental challenges that can drastically reduce their effectiveness.

Denver’s mile-high altitude isn’t just a fun fact; it’s a key factor in the accelerated degradation of Vitamin C. At 5,280 feet above sea level, the air is thinner, meaning less atmospheric protection from the sun’s harmful ultraviolet (UV) radiation. This increased UV exposure doesn’t just affect your skin; it also breaks down Vitamin C, a delicate molecule, much faster.

Think of it like this: you leave a bowl of fruit salad out in the sun. At sea level, it might take a few hours for the fruit to start looking sad. In Denver, that same bowl will be a mushy mess in half the time. Vitamin C gummies are similarly vulnerable.

The science is clear. UV radiation causes oxidative stress, which degrades Vitamin C. Studies have shown that even in controlled laboratory settings, exposure to UV light significantly reduces the Vitamin C content of various substances. Now, imagine that effect amplified by Denver’s intense sunshine.

So, what’s a health-conscious Denverite to do? Simply popping a gummy and hoping for the best isn’t enough. We need a strategic approach.

First, storage is paramount. Don’t leave your Vitamin C gummies on the kitchen counter, basking in the sun’s rays. Instead, store them in a cool, dark, and dry place. The refrigerator is an excellent option, as the low temperature further slows down degradation.

Consider this: a study published in the Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry found that storing Vitamin C-rich foods at refrigerated temperatures significantly reduced Vitamin C loss compared to room temperature storage. This principle applies directly to your gummies.

Second, consider higher-potency alternatives. If you’re relying on gummies as your primary source of Vitamin C, you might not be getting as much as you think, especially if they’ve been sitting on the shelf for a while or improperly stored. Look for gummies with a higher concentration of Vitamin C to compensate for potential losses.

Alternatively, explore other forms of Vitamin C supplementation. Liposomal Vitamin C, for example, is known for its enhanced absorption and stability. It’s more expensive, but the increased bioavailability might be worth it, especially given Denver’s environmental challenges.

Third, get tested. Don’t just guess whether you’re getting enough Vitamin C. Several labs in the Denver area offer blood-level Vitamin C testing. This is the most accurate way to determine your Vitamin C status and adjust your intake accordingly.

• Labcorp and Quest Diagnostics, both with multiple locations in Denver, offer Vitamin C blood tests.
• Some local naturopathic doctors and integrative medicine clinics also provide Vitamin C testing as part of a comprehensive nutritional assessment.

Knowing your baseline Vitamin C level allows you to tailor your supplementation strategy to your individual needs. It’s a proactive approach to ensuring optimal health in the face of environmental challenges.

Fourth, be mindful of expiration dates. Vitamin C gummies, like all supplements, have an expiration date. Pay close attention to it and discard any gummies that are past their prime. Even if they look and taste fine, their Vitamin C content may have significantly diminished.

Fifth, consider the source. Not all Vitamin C gummies are created equal. Look for reputable brands that use high-quality ingredients and employ rigorous testing procedures to ensure potency and purity. Avoid generic or off-brand gummies, as their Vitamin C content may be unreliable.

A common pitfall is assuming that all Vitamin C gummies are the same. This is a dangerous assumption. The quality of ingredients, manufacturing processes, and storage conditions can all significantly impact the final product.

Another challenge is the “gummy factor.” Gummies are often loaded with sugar and artificial ingredients, which can negate some of the health benefits of Vitamin C. Opt for gummies with minimal added sugar and natural flavorings.

Don’t fall into the trap of relying solely on gummies for your Vitamin C intake. A balanced diet rich in fruits and vegetables is the best way to ensure adequate Vitamin C levels. Think citrus fruits, berries, bell peppers, and leafy greens.

Finally, remember that Vitamin C is just one piece of the puzzle. A healthy lifestyle, including regular exercise, adequate sleep, and stress management, is essential for overall well-being. Don’t rely on gummies as a magic bullet.

In conclusion, while Vitamin C gummies can be a convenient way to supplement your diet, Denver residents need to be aware of the unique challenges posed by the city’s high altitude and intense UV radiation. By implementing proper storage techniques, considering higher-potency alternatives, getting tested, and being mindful of expiration dates and sources, you can ensure that you’re getting the Vitamin C you need to thrive in the Mile High City. Don’t let the sun steal your sunshine vitamin!