Vitamin D is often called the “sunshine vitamin,” but many people still struggle to get enough of it through sunlight alone. Health experts say this nutrient plays a critical role in helping the body absorb calcium, maintain bone strength, and support the immune system. Because only a few foods naturally contain vitamin D, many beverages are now fortified (vitamin-D enriched) to help people meet their daily nutritional needs.
According to health guidance, most adults need around 600–800 IU (15–20 mcg) of vitamin D per day, and certain drinks can contribute to that intake when included in a balanced diet.
Below are six commonly available drinks that may help increase vitamin D intake.
1 – Fortified Milk (Vitamin D–Fortified Dairy Milk)
Milk is widely considered one of the most accessible beverage sources of vitamin D because many commercial varieties are fortified during processing. An 8-ounce serving of fortified milk can provide roughly 120 IU of vitamin D, which is about 20% of the recommended daily intake for many adults.
Milk also contains calcium, making it a helpful combination for supporting bone health (bone density support) when consumed regularly as part of a balanced diet.
2 – Fortified Soy Milk (Plant-Based Alternative)
For people who avoid dairy products, soy milk (plant-based milk) is a popular alternative. Many brands are enriched with vitamin D and offer a similar amount—about 120 IU per cup—to that found in fortified dairy milk.
Soy milk can be an option for those following vegan or lactose-free diets, while still contributing to daily vitamin D intake.
3 – Fortified Almond, Rice, and Oat Milk
Other plant-based beverages such as almond milk, rice milk, and oat milk are also commonly fortified with vitamin D. A typical cup of almond milk may contain around 100–107 IU of vitamin D, depending on the brand.
These alternatives are often chosen by people looking for low-dairy or plant-focused nutrition options (non-dairy beverages).
4 – Fortified Orange Juice
Some brands of orange juice are enriched with vitamin D, providing around 100 IU per cup.
In addition to vitamin D, orange juice naturally contains vitamin C and antioxidants, which are associated with immune support. Research suggests that fortified orange juice can help raise vitamin D levels when consumed regularly as part of a balanced diet.
5 – Kefir (Probiotic Dairy Drink)
Kefir, a fermented dairy beverage similar to drinkable yogurt, may also contain vitamin D when fortified. A typical cup can offer around 100 IU of vitamin D along with beneficial probiotics (gut-friendly bacteria).
Because of its probiotic content, kefir is often associated with digestive health and immune support.
6 – Certain Sports and Health Drinks
Some sports beverages, electrolyte drinks, bottled waters, and meal-replacement shakes are fortified with vitamin D.
While vitamin D levels can vary widely by brand, these drinks may provide additional nutrients designed for hydration and nutritional supplementation.
How to Identify Vitamin D–Fortified Drinks
Nutrition experts recommend checking the nutrition label or ingredient list on packaged beverages. Products that contain added vitamin D are often labeled “fortified” or “enriched.”
Consumers should also note the percentage of daily value (DV) listed on the packaging to understand how much vitamin D a serving provides.
The Bottom Line
Vitamin D is essential for maintaining strong bones, muscle function, and a healthy immune response. While sunlight remains a primary source, certain fortified beverages (vitamin D drinks) can help supplement daily intake.
Health professionals generally advise combining dietary sources, moderate sun exposure, and medical guidance if supplementation is needed. Including vitamin D–fortified drinks in everyday nutrition may be one practical way to support overall wellness.