Best vitamin D drinks: 4 choices to strengthen immunity and wellness
Drinks that contain vitamin D (photo: Freepik)
Vitamin D deficiency is a common issue, particularly during the winter months. Here's a list of drinks that not only refresh but also help support immunity and energy, according to Health.
Fortified milk
Fortified milk is milk that has nutrients added by the manufacturer, which may be lacking or lost during processing. It is most often enriched with:
- Vitamin D
- Calcium
- Sometimes vitamins A, B12, protein, or iodine
According to the US Dairy Council, milk fortified with vitamin D should contain between 100 IU and 150 IU of vitamin D per serving.
For example, one cup of 1% fortified milk contains 104 IU (17% of the daily value).
Plant-based milk
Many types of plant-based milk, such as soy, almond, and rice milk, contain added vitamin D.
Most plant-based milks don't naturally contain vitamin D. It is only added in fortified versions.
Before buying, check the label for Vitamin D2/D3 or the amount listed as a percentage of the daily value.
Orange juice
Fortified orange juice can provide about 100 IU of vitamin D (17% of the daily value) per cup.
The drink usually also contains calcium, which is beneficial for bone health.
Natural orange juice also contains other vitamins:
- Vitamin C – the main vitamin in the highest amount
- Folate (vitamin B9) – moderate amounts
- Vitamin B1 (thiamine) – small amounts
- Vitamin A (as provitamin A carotenoids) – a small amount, but present
Mushroom broth
Mushrooms are the only plant-based food naturally rich in vitamin D. If simmered, the broth can contain a notable dose of the vitamin.
Vitamin D in mushrooms forms under the influence of ultraviolet light. The highest amounts are found in mushrooms that have been dried or exposed to UV light.
Even if mushrooms contain some vitamin D, only a trace passes into the broth, while most remains in the mushroom flesh or is partially destroyed during prolonged cooking.
Daily vitamin D requirement
The Office of Dietary Supplements recommends a daily intake of 600 IU of vitamin D for adults.
Fatty fish are the richest sources of vitamin D, including rainbow trout, salmon, tuna, and sardines. Egg yolks and certain types of mushrooms also contain vitamin D, as do many fortified foods like yogurt, cheese, and cereals.
Because vitamin D is fat-soluble, it is best absorbed when consumed with foods rich in fat, such as olive oil, avocado, nuts, or seeds.
You may be interested in:
- 8 best vitamins essential for women's health
- Follow these daily tips to get more vitamins
- 6 main signs of vitamin D overdose
This material is for informational purposes only and should not be used for medical diagnosis or self-treatment. Our goal is to provide readers with accurate information about symptoms, causes, and methods of detecting diseases. RBС-Ukraine is not responsible for any diagnoses that readers may make based on materials from the resource. We do not recommend self-treatment and advise consulting a doctor in case of any health concerns.
