10 alimentos do dia a dia ricos em vitamina D

Why do we need vitamin D?

A vitamina D ajuda o corpo a absorver cálcio e fosfato, nutrientes essenciais para ossos, dentes e músculos fortes. Um deficiency pode causar fadiga, humor deprimido, imunidade enfraquecida e, em casos graves, problemas ósseos como raquitismo ou osteoporose.

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.

10 foods high in vitamin D

© Patient / Heather Ainsworth

Graphic: Heather Ainsworth

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.

Sardinhas, frescas ou enlatadas, são outra excelente opção e fornecem cálcio e 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

Fígado de boi e cordeiro são ricos em vários nutrientes, incluindo vitamina D, ferro e vitamina 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.

Normalmente contêm vitamina D2, embora algumas marcas agora adicionem D3 derivada de líquen², which is suitable for vegans and thought to be more effective.

Pode ser difícil atender às suas necessidades de vitamina D apenas com a alimentação, mesmo com uma dieta variada. É por isso que às vezes é recomendado o uso de suplementação, especialmente 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.

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.

Para a maioria das pessoas, combinar esses alimentos com um suplemento diário durante o inverno oferece a melhor proteção contra deficiências. Sempre certifique-se de seguir a dose recomendada para evitar vitamin D toxicity.

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

1. NHS: Vitamin D: Vitamins and Minerals

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