10 surprising foods high in vitamin D

Why do we need vitamin D?

Vitamin D helps the body absorb calcium and phosphate, nutrients that are vital for strong bones, teeth, and muscles. A deficiency can cause fatigue, low mood, weakened immunity, and, in severe cases, bone problems such as rickets or osteoporosis.

Since the body produces vitamin D when the skin is exposed to sunlight, some people may be deficient during the autumn and winter months. To bridge that seasonal gap, experts recommend adults consider a daily 10 micrograms (400 International Units) supplement from October through March to maintain healthy levels of this essential vitamin.¹

Alongside your daily supplement, it’s a good idea to boost your vitamin D intake through food. There are plenty of everyday sources that you might already know of - and a few that might even surprise you.

Food sources of vitamin D

Foods high in vitamin D

1. Oily fish

Oily fish, are among the richest natural sources of vitamin D. Just one serving of salmon or mackerel can provide most of your daily requirement. Sardines, whether fresh or canned, are another excellent option and supply calcium and omega-3 fatty acids.

2. Egg yolks

Eggs are a convenient and versatile way to get more vitamin D. The yolk contains most of the nutrient, so eating whole eggs rather than just the whites is best. Vitamin D levels can vary depending on how the hens were raised, and eggs from free-range or outdoor-reared hens tend to contain more.

3. Fortified foods

In the UK, many everyday foods are fortified with vitamin D, meaning it is added during production. Common examples include:

• Breakfast cereals.

• Margarine and spreads.

• Some plant-based milks such as soya, oat, or almond.

• Fortified orange juice.

Fortified foods are particularly useful for vegetarians, vegans, or anyone who does not eat fish. Always check the label to see how much vitamin D a product contains.

4. Mushrooms exposed to sunlight

Most mushrooms contain very little vitamin D unless they have been exposed to UV light, which increases their vitamin D2 content. Look for labels that say “UV-exposed” or “vitamin D enriched”.

Leaving ordinary mushrooms on a sunny windowsill for an hour before cooking can slightly boost their vitamin D levels.

5. Liver

Beef and lamb liver are rich in several nutrients, including vitamin D, iron, and vitamin A. However, because they are high in vitamin A, they should be eaten in moderation, especially by people who are pregnant, as too much vitamin A can be harmful to the baby.

6. Cod liver oil

Cod liver oil has long been a popular supplement in the UK and is still one of the richest natural sources of vitamin D. Just one teaspoon can give you your entire daily dose. However, because it’s also high in vitamin A, it’s best to follow the recommended dosage and avoid taking it alongside other vitamin A supplements.

7. Tinned tuna

Fresh tuna loses much of its vitamin D during cooking, but tinned tuna retains more of it. It is a convenient cupboard staple that can be added to sandwiches, salads, or pasta dishes. Choose tuna canned in spring water rather than oil for a lighter option.

8. Cheese

Some types of cheese, particularly ricotta, contain small amounts of vitamin D, and when combined with other foods high in vitamin D, can contribute to your overall intake. Cheese also provides calcium and protein, which support bone and muscle health.

9. Shellfish

Prawns, and oysters contain modest amounts of vitamin D, along with protein, zinc, and vitamin B12. They are also lower in fat than other animal sources, making them a healthy addition to a balanced diet.

10. Fortified plant-based alternatives

For those following a vegan diet, fortified plant-based milks, yoghurts, and spreads are among the most reliable vitamin D foods. They usually contain vitamin D2, though some brands now add D3 derived from lichen², which is suitable for vegans and thought to be more effective.

Getting enough vitamin D

It can be difficult to meet your vitamin D needs through food alone, even with a varied diet. This is why supplementation is sometimes recommended, particularly during the winter months or for people at higher risk of deficiency, including those who rarely go outdoors or have darker skin tones.

If you are unsure whether you need a supplement, speak to your doctor or pharmacist. They may recommend a simple blood test to check your levels.

Zusammenfassung

Although sunlight is the main source of vitamin D, certain foods high in vitamin D, such as oily fish, fortified products, and eggs, can make a valuable contribution.

For most people, combining these foods with a daily supplement during the winter offers the best protection against deficiency. Always make sure to stick to the recommended intake to avoid vitamin D toxicity.

Keeping your vitamin D levels healthy supports not only bones and muscles but also your immune system and overall wellbeing.

Patient picks for Vitamins and supplements

Diät und Ernährung

Was sind die Vor- und Nachteile der Einnahme von Nahrungsergänzungsmitteln?

Wer im Supermarkt durch die Gesundheitsregale stöbert, im Bioladen die Regale durchstöbert oder sich im Internet umschaut in der Hoffnung, seine Gesundheit zu verbessern, wird eine Fülle von Nahrungsergänzungsmitteln im Angebot finden. Oft werden diese als "natürlich" oder "pflanzlich" angepriesen - was sie gesund und harmlos erscheinen lässt.

von Gillian Harvey

Weitere Lektüre

1. NHS: Vitamin D: Vitamins and Minerals

2. Malhotra et al. Lichens- Role in Traditional Medicine and Drug Discovery