Last Updated on July 25, 2022 by Shane Corbitt
If you’re vegan, it can be challenging to get enough of the essential nutrient Vitamin D. This is because Vitamin D is mainly found in animal products, and many fortified foods and supplements contain Vitamin D3 which is derived from lanolin, a substance found in sheep wool. However, don’t worry – there are plenty of good plant-based sources of Vitamin D and other nutrients that can help keep you healthy! In this article, we will discuss the best sources of Vitamin D for vegans.
1. Plant-based diets are becoming more popular, and for good reason
What is a plant-based diet?
A plant-based diet is one that focuses on plants for most of its food intake. This includes fruits, vegetables, grains, legumes, and nuts. While there is no strict definition of a plant-based diet, it typically contains fewer animal products than the standard Western diet.
What are the benefits of a plant-based diet?
There are many reasons why people choose to eat a plant-based diet. Some do it for health reasons, as plant-based diets have been linked to lower rates of heart disease, obesity, and diabetes. Others do it for animal welfare reasons, as plant-based diets require fewer animals to be raised and slaughtered. Some people choose plant-based diets for environmental reasons, as they tend to have a lower carbon footprint than diets that include meat and dairy.
2. What is Vitamin D and why is it essential?
Vitamin D is a fat-soluble vitamin that is essential for the body. We need vitamin D for several functions in the body, including helping calcium absorption, maintaining strong bones, and preventing osteoporosis; for nerve transmission and muscle function; supporting the immune system; reducing inflammation, and regulating genes and cell growth. Some studies suggest that vitamin D may help to prevent some types of cancer, autoimmune diseases, diabetes, and cardiovascular disease.
While vitamin D is essential for good health, too much vitamin D can be harmful. Vitamin D toxicity can cause nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, weakness, and weight loss. It can also lead to high blood calcium levels, which can cause kidney stones and other health problems. If you think you might have vitamin D toxicity, talk to your doctor.
You can get vitamin D in three ways: through your skin, from food, and supplements. Talk to your doctor. He or she can order a blood test to check your vitamin D levels and make sure you’re not at risk for vitamin D deficiency.
3. Ways to get enough vitamin D
There are a few ways to make sure you’re getting enough vitamin D. You can get it from fortified foods, supplements, and of course, exposure to sunlight. Here are a few things to keep in mind when trying to get your vitamin D fix.
When it comes to food, look for items that are fortified with vitamin D. This vitamin is often added to juices and cereals. Supplements are another great way to make sure you’re getting enough vitamin D. You can take these in pill form or get them as a liquid.
Of course, one of the best ways to get vitamin D is by spending time in the sun. Just make sure you’re wearing sunscreen and not staying out for too long, as too much sun exposure can be dangerous. Try to spend about 15 minutes a day in direct sunlight to get your vitamin D fix.
So there you have it! A few easy ways to make sure you’re getting enough vitamin D. Just remember to mix up your food, supplements, and sun exposure to get the best results. And as always, speak with a doctor before starting any new vitamin regimen.
4. Foods that are high in vitamin D
There are a few plant-based foods that are high in vitamin D. These include mushrooms, fortified tofu, fortified plant milk, and fortified cereals. Mushrooms are a great source of vitamin D because they can absorb vitamin D from the sun. Tofu and plant milk is often fortified with vitamin D, so be sure to check the labels. Fortified cereals are another good option for getting vitamin D, especially if you don’t eat many other plant-based foods.
If you’re looking for ways to get more vitamin D, try incorporating some of these plant-based foods into your diet. You may be surprised at how easy it is to get the nutrient from food, rather than from supplements. And, as always, be sure to talk to your doctor if you have any questions about how to get enough vitamin D.
Do you have any favorite plant-based foods that are high in vitamin D? Let us know in the comments below!
5. Supplements that can help with getting enough vitamin D
It can be difficult to get enough vitamin D from food alone. This is where supplements come in handy. Here are some vegan supplements that can help you get enough vitamin D:
-Vitamin D drops
-Vitamin D capsules
-Vitamin D tablets
-Vitamin D spray
If you’re unsure about which supplement is right for you, talk to your doctor or a registered dietitian. They can help you figure out the best way to get enough vitamin D.
Getting enough vitamin D is especially important for people who are at risk for vitamin D deficiency. This includes people who have dark skin, are older, don’t get much sun exposure, or have certain medical conditions that make it difficult to absorb vitamin D.
Summary
Plant-based diets are becoming more and more popular, and for good reason. They’re healthy, sustainable, and delicious! In this post, we outlined what vitamin D is and why it’s essential. We listed some of the best food sources of vitamin D. But we want to know – what’s your favorite plant-based source of this essential nutrient? Join our facebook group and let us know! We can’t wait to hear from you.
