Vitamin D is a fat-soluble vitamin required by all. Not just a type of vitamin, it acts as a hormone and helps with the regulation of genes, improving immunity, and is involved in calcium absorption which is needed for bone and spine health.

Sunlight is the natural source of vitamin D. Many of us think that just standing in the sun is enough to absorb vitamin D. But you are wrong, taking sunlight by standing in the sun regularly doesn’t guarantee that your body is absorbing. This is just like applying sunscreen and going out in the sun to take vitamin D.

Ways that ensure your body absorbs maximum vitamin D

The quantity of vitamin D in your supplements

Calcium and vitamin D both are essential for bone health. Calcium is significant for vitamin D and vice versa. The portion size or the quantity of our food matters when it comes to a healthy body and so is in the case of vitamin D. The timing of taking vitamin D matters. Vitamin D is to be taken along with the major meal of the day. Taking it with coffee, snacks, or mid-day meals won’t let the absorption happen.

Other nutrients responsible for better absorption

For better absorption of vitamin D, you must include calcium, vitamin K, magnesium, and zinc in your diet. They speed up the absorption procedure and decrease the risk of being vitamin D deficient.

Healthy fats 

Since vitamin D is a fat-soluble vitamin, it requires healthy fats for better absorption. Healthy fats like ghee and olive oil are not harmful if taken in moderation. Hence for vitamin D penetration and absorption, healthy fats are a great medium to accelerate the whole process.

Include fortified cereals and milk in your meal 

Fortified cereals and milk help in boosting the absorption of vitamin D so must include them in your diet too.

Seafood for better absorption 

Vitamin D can be taken from animal as well as plant sources. Fish and seafood are major animal sources of vitamin D. The vitamin D present in animal sources is better absorbed by the body than plant sources. 

Stay stress-free

When you are under stress, your body releases hormones that affect gut health and lead to stomach problems. Vitamin D is absorbed in the intestine and hence your gut plays an important role in its absorption. Thus, it becomes important to maintain gut health by including probiotics in daily food. 

Other than food or supplement, try to take sunlight on a daily basis, 20 minutes will do.

(Disclaimer: The content on this site is for informational purposes only, and should not be taken as professional medical advice.  Always seek the guidance of your doctor or other health professionals for any questions you may have regarding your health or a medical condition.)