Dhaka., June 26 (UNB) - Vitamin D deficiency is one of the most common causes of concern in the world of health and nutrition today. Vitamin D deficiency prevails in epidemic amounts all over the Indian subcontinent, with a prevalence of 70% in Indian population, as per a study published in journal Nutrients. Ironically, India is blessed with abundant sunlight; it is shocking to have such whooping number of people suffering from vitamin D deficiency. Vitamin D, also known as 'sunshine vitamin,' is one of the most important nutrients, which our body needs to perform various functions. The nutrient plays an important role in regulation and absorption of various other essential minerals, including magnesium, phosphate and calcium in our body, reports NDTV. 

Vitamin D is known to boost immune system and facilitate growth and development of teeth and bones. Deficiency of vitamin D in body may lead to weaker bones, joint or back pain, or even muscle pain. The potent nutrient is also known to improve resistance against a plethora of lifestyle diseases. While we can get vitamin D from sunlight and some natural vitamin-rich foods like soya, mushrooms, salmon, eggs, etc., there are some amazing vitamin D-rich drinks that you may include in your daily diet to avoid vitamin D deficiency.

Here's A List Of Healthy Vitamin D-Rich Drinks That You Can Add To Your Diet:

Orange Juice

There are not many natural sources of vitamin D, especially if you are a vegan or vegetarian or simply don't like salmon. Fret not! There are certain drinks that are fortified with vitamin D. One such drink is orange juice. Yes, orange juice has many health promoting nutrients and vitamin D is one of them. Always opt for homemade fresh orange juice to avoid any adulteration or artificial additives. Here's a recipe of delicious orange and basil juice that you can try at home.

Cow Milk

Cow milk is one of the most consumed drinks in the world. Cow milk is naturally a good source of various nutrients, including vitamin D. According to the book, 'Healing Foods' by DK Publishing, "Use full fat milk, as it contains only 4 percent of fat; take out its fat, and its fat-soluble vitamin A, D, E and K are also reduced." Health experts and nutritionists recommend having full fat milk as it is brimming with maximum amount of vitamin D. But if you don't like to drink directly, you can make smoothies or add chocolate syrup to your glass of milk.

Yogurt-Based Drinks

Yogurt is fortified with vitamin D and has around 5 IU per 8-ounce serving, as per the USDA nutrition data. If you buy yogurt from a store, make sure you read the label carefully, but prefer making yogurt at home to avoid preservatives. If you don't wish to eat yogurt on a daily basis, break the monotony by making some interesting yogurt-based drinks. One such delicious yogurt-based drink is mint lassi. This lassi is similar to the classic lassi that we drink, but comes with a twist of mint in it.

Soya Milk

Since vitamin D is mostly found in animal-based foods, vegans and vegetarians are left with very limited options. Therefore, plant-based milk substitutes like soy milk are often fortified with vitamin D and other essential nutrients that are usually found in cow's milk. Avoid buying packaged soya milk from the market as they come with preservatives and additives. Here's how you can make soya milk at home.

If you are vitamin D deficient, it is always better to consult your doctor before adding any food or drink to your diet. The best way to get your dose of vitamin D is by spending time under the morning sun.