5 Drinks With More Vitamin D Than Orange Juice

While sunlight remains the main source of vitamin D for humans, certain fortified beverages can also contribute to your daily intake. For instance, an 8-ounce serving of fortified orange juice typically provides about 100 international units (IU) of vitamin D, though other drinks may offer higher amounts.1

1. Fortified Dairy Milk

Vitamin D: 117 IU per cup1

Milk is a reliable source of vitamin D, with about 117 IU per cup of low-fat milk.1 Although dairy milk doesn’t naturally contain vitamin D, it is fortified during processing to support daily nutritional needs.2

Fortified milk is also a rich source of calcium, which, along with vitamin D, is crucial for strong bones and teeth.3 Regularly drinking fortified dairy milk can help improve bone health, strengthen the immune system, and boost overall well-being.

2. Fortified Plant-Based Milk

Vitamin D: 119 IU per cup of soy milk, 107 IU per cup of almond milk1

People who are lactose intolerant or who follow a vegan diet can choose from a range of plant-based milk alternatives.4 Varieties such as soy, oat, almond, and coconut milk are commonly available and often enriched with vitamin D and calcium, offering nutritional benefits comparable to those of regular dairy milk.

Many plant-based milks come unsweetened and include added protein or other vitamins and minerals, catering to a variety of dietary preferences and needs.5

When shopping for plant-based milk, be sure to review the nutrition labels, as not all brands or types are fortified with vitamin D and calcium.

3. Kefir

Vitamin D: Over 100 IU per cup possible if fortified1

Kefir can be an excellent source of vitamin D, especially when fortified, making it a valuable option for supporting both bone and immune health. One cup of kefir may contain 100 or more IU of vitamin D.1

Naturally fermented kefir made from unfortified milk contains very little vitamin D.6 But commercial options made with fortified milk can significantly contribute to your daily vitamin D intake, helping to enhance calcium absorption, strengthen bones, and support immune function.

When choosing kefir for its vitamin D benefits, check the label to ensure it’s fortified.

4. Protein Shakes

Vitamin D: Varies7

Many protein shake brands are fortified with vitamin D. For instance, Core Power – Complete Protein 42 G Elite High Protein Milk Shakes offer 8.3 micrograms (mcg), equivalent to 332 IU of vitamin per one-bottle serving.8

When choosing protein shakes based on their vitamin D content, carefully examine nutrition labels, as vitamin D levels can vary substantially across different brands and formulas.

5. Mushroom Broth

Vitamin D: Varies9

Mushrooms are among the few plant-based foods that naturally provide vitamin D.10 When exposed to ultraviolet (UV) light, mushrooms convert ergosterol into vitamin D2, a form of vitamin D similar to vitamin D3 found in animal products. 

Simmering mushrooms to make a drinkable broth can deliver a significant amount of vitamin D. However, the actual content depends on factors such as mushroom type, preparation method, and simmering times. Notably, a 2025 study found that prolonged boiling can decrease the vitamin D content of mushroom broth.9

When preparing mushroom broth at home, be sure to check product labels to confirm the mushrooms have been treated with UV light, as only UV-exposed mushrooms offer meaningful amounts of vitamin D.10

How Much Vitamin D Do You Need Daily?

The recommended daily intake of vitamin D for most adults is 600 IU.7 Achieving this level is essential for maintaining bone health, supporting immune function, and promoting overall wellness.

Vitamin D can be obtained naturally from certain foods and from fortified beverages. You can achieve daily vitamin D requirements through diet alone by including fortified foods and drinks (dairy products, plant-based milks, orange juice, protein drinks, cereals), eggs, and some types of fish, such as halibut, mackerel, carp, eel, and salmon.711

This approach is especially important for people with limited sun exposure, following restricted diets, or with increased nutritional needs.

Source: www.verywellhealth.com