"Vitamin D is
crucial for protecting against cancer, diabetes, depression, and heart disease.
Although the recommended daily dose of vitamin D is 400 international units
(IU), new research suggests taking at least 1,700 IU of vitamin D daily to get
its health benefits. And while sunshine is the best source of vitamin D, you
can still load up on the vitamin by adding these vitamin D-rich foods to your
diet.
Salmon
A 3.5-ounce serving of wild salmon has
360 IU, or 90 percent of the recommended daily value of vitamin D. It's also
one of the best sources of omega-3 fatty acids, which are associated with a
lowered risk of heart disease, cancer, and depression.
Cereal
It's time to put down the Lucky Charms:
one cup of fortified breakfast cereal has 40 IU, or 10 percent of the
recommended daily value of vitamin D. You'll also get more energy from iron and vitamin B, giving you
plenty of reasons to make time for a healthy morning breakfast.
Milk
One cup of fortified milk contains
98 IU, or about 25 percent of the recommended daily value of vitamin D. Another
reason it does a body good: Studies have shown that women who drink 10 or more
glasses of milk a week in their teens and 20s have lower rates of breast
cancer. So drink up!
Eggs
Consider this before deciding on an
egg-white omelet: one egg yolk has 20 IU, about 6 percent of your daily value
of vitamin D. Eggs are also rich in protein, which will keep you feeling fuller
longer.
Swiss Cheese
A slice of Swiss cheese contains about
12 IU, which is 4 percent of your daily value of vitamin D. Another reason to choose Swiss: since
it's a natural cheese, Swiss contains less sodium than a processed cheese like American cheese or cheese
spreads. Goodbye, nachos.
Shrimp
Shrimp cocktail isn't just low in calories -- a 3-ounce serving of shrimp also has
129 IU, about 32 percent of your daily value of vitamin D. This little
crustacean is also rich in protein and contains zinc, which helps boost your
immune system.
Oysters
At 272 IU per 3 ounces, or 68 percent
your recommended daily value of vitamin D, this seafood is more than just a
supposed aphrodisiac. Oysters are also a good source of zinc, which helps your
immune system and keeps your nails, hair, and eyes healthy.
Fortified OJ
A cup of fortified orange juice contains about 100 IU or 25 percent of your
recommended daily value of vitamin D. It's also rich in vitamin C, a powerful antioxidant that helps fight disease.
Canned Tuna
Three ounces of canned tuna in oil has
200 IU or 50 percent of your recommended daily value of vitamin D. Tuna is also
a great source of protein and omega-3s, giving you plenty
of reasons to keep canned tuna in your pantry.
Cod Liver Oil
It's not the tastiest option, but a
tablespoon of this natural supplement has 1,360 IU, or 340 percent of your
daily value of vitamin D, making it the best way to supplement your intake. Cod
liver oil is also rich in omega-3 fatty acids, protecting you against heart
disease, depression, and Alzheimer's."
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