Extreme Heat Over 33°C Can Damage Insulin and Requires Refrigerated Storage

1.Extreme Heat Causes Dehydration, Leading to a Vicious Cycle of Elevated Blood Sugar Levels
According to an interview conducted in 2020 by Dr. Marwan Habbati of Avon Hospital in Ohio, in collaboration with the Cleveland Clinic, titled "Managing Diabetes During Extreme Summer Heat," exposure to high temperatures makes it harder for diabetes patients to manage blood sugar and can lead to severe health problems. The study found that diabetes patients are at higher risk of dehydration, heat stroke, and heat exhaustion during heat waves. The situation can worsen particularly if insulin treatment is involved.
2.Extreme Heat Damages Insulin
Most insulin can withstand temperatures up to 33°C–35°C, but exposure to higher temperatures causes the medication to break down rapidly. While storing insulin in the refrigerator is recommended, excessively low temperatures can also degrade the medication, rendering it ineffective and unusable. Thus, extreme heat negatively impacts both diabetes patients and their medications.
3.Protecting Insulin During Extreme Heat Requires Proper Refrigeration

Refrigerated Storage: Insulin should typically be stored at temperatures between 2°C and 8°C. At home, use a refrigerator, and for travel, use ice packs or portable refrigerators.
Avoid Direct Sunlight: Do not expose insulin to direct sunlight or high temperatures. When storing insulin while outdoors, use dark, light-blocking storage containers or keep it deep inside a bag to avoid direct sunlight.
Use Portable Refrigerators: During travel, use portable refrigerators that can connect to a vehicle’s 12-volt adapter. These help maintain proper temperatures and prevent overheating inside the vehicle.
Use Cooling Gel Packs: Cooling gel packs can be used to store insulin. However, ensure that the insulin does not come into direct contact with the ice or gel pack. It is recommended to place a cloth between the gel pack and the insulin.
Temperature-Control Cases: Specially designed temperature-control cases can be used to store insulin. These cases maintain a consistent temperature and are less sensitive to external temperature fluctuations.
4.Avoid Dehydration and Frequently Monitor Blood Sugar Levels During Heatwaves
Avoid Dehydration: Carry small water bottles or low-calorie electrolyte-replenishing sports drinks in your backpack or belt while hiking or playing sports.
Adjust Insulin Dosage as Needed: Consult your doctor on how to adjust insulin before exercising and whether you need to consume more carbohydrates. Initial consultations often focus on emergency issues like diabetes management. Ask about insulin adjustments to prepare for physical activities.
Frequently Monitor Blood Sugar Levels: Hot temperatures can cause fluctuations in blood sugar levels, so frequent monitoring is advised. This enables prompt actions to stabilize levels. Continue monitoring for several hours after exercising or other activities, as their impact on blood sugar tends to last longer.