Vitamin D is an essential nutrient that is needed for strong bones and overall good health. It is mainly obtained from sunlight, but many people struggle to get enough vitamin D from sunlight alone. Vitamin D deficiency can lead to several health problems, including weak bones, an increased risk of falls, and an increased risk of chronic diseases such as diabetes, heart disease, and some cancers. While Vitamin D supplements are a common way of correcting a deficiency. But, you would be surprised to know that many drinks help in increasing your Vitamin D levels. So let us tell about the drinks which fulfill the deficiency of Vitamin D.
Drinks that help in meeting the deficiency of Vitamin D: –
Fortified milk
Milk is one of the best sources of Vitamin D, but the amount of Vitamin D in regular milk can vary depending on the season and the cow's exposure to sunlight. For this reason, many brands of milk use several techniques to ensure consistent vitamin D levels throughout the year. Just one cup of fortified milk can provide up to a third of your daily recommended intake of vitamin D.
Fortified Plant-Based Milk
If you are lactose intolerant or a vegetarian, fortified plant-based milk such as soy, almond, and oat milk can also provide a good source of vitamin D. Just be sure to choose a brand that is fortified with vitamin D and check the label to be sure it contains adequate levels of vitamin D.
Orange juice
Many brands of orange juice are also fortified with vitamin D, making it an easy and convenient way to boost your intake. Consuming one cup of fortified orange juice can provide a quarter of your daily intake of vitamin D.
Fortified cereals
Some fortified cereals are rich in vitamin D, making them a good breakfast option to boost your intake. Include such grains in daily food which help in meeting the deficiency of Vitamin D.
Herbal tea
Herbal teas, such as chamomile, are also a good source of vitamin D. Chamomile tea is often taken before bedtime for its relaxing properties, but it can also help increase your vitamin D levels. You can also try other types of herbal teas such as dandelion, nettle, and red clover.
Mushroom tea
Mushrooms are one of the few foods that naturally contain Vitamin D. They can be a great addition to your diet if you want to boost your Vitamin D levels. One way to enjoy mushrooms is to make mushroom tea by boiling chopped mushrooms in water for about 20 minutes. You can also add other ingredients like ginger or honey to make it taste better.
Smoothie
Smoothies are a great way to combine several vitamin D-rich ingredients into one delicious drink. Try blending fortified milk or plant-based milk with yogurt, berries, and spinach for a nutrient-rich smoothie that can help boost your vitamin D levels.
Apart from adding these beverages to your diet, it is important to spend time outside to get exposure to natural sunlight, which is the best way to increase your Vitamin D levels. If still, the level of Vitamin D is low then consult your doctor immediately.