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Can you absorb vitamin D through milk?

The Role of Milk in Vitamin D Absorption
Milk has long been recognized as a significant dietary source of vitamin D, particularly when fortified. This essential nutrient plays a crucial role in maintaining bone health and preventing conditions such as rickets and osteomalacia. The fortification of milk with vitamin D has become a common practice in many countries, making it an accessible option for those looking to boost their vitamin D intake.
Natural and Fortified Sources
Milk naturally contains some vitamin D, but the levels are often insufficient to meet daily requirements. To address this, many dairy products are fortified with vitamin D2 or D3, which enhances their nutritional profile. For instance, in countries with established fortification policies, milk can contribute significantly to overall vitamin D intake, accounting for 28% to 63% of daily needs in some populations. This fortification is particularly important as many individuals may not receive adequate sunlight exposure, which is another primary source of vitamin D.
Synergistic Benefits with Calcium
The combination of vitamin D and calcium in milk is particularly beneficial. These nutrients work synergistically in the body; vitamin D enhances calcium absorption, which is vital for bone health. This relationship underscores the importance of consuming fortified milk, especially for individuals at risk of osteoporosis or those who may have limited dietary sources of these nutrients.
Absorption Considerations
While vitamin D is a fat-soluble vitamin, it does not strictly require dietary fat for absorption. Studies indicate that the presence of bile, which is produced during digestion, is more critical for the absorption of vitamin D than the fat content of the milk itself. Therefore, whether one chooses whole, 2%, or skim milk, the vitamin D absorption remains effective, although whole milk may provide additional health benefits due to its fat content.
Conclusion
In summary, drinking milk—especially fortified varieties—can significantly contribute to your vitamin D intake. This is particularly beneficial for those who may not get enough sunlight or have dietary restrictions. As part of a balanced diet, milk serves not only as a source of hydration but also as a vital component in maintaining overall health through its rich nutrient profile.

Do babies really need vitamin D drops?

All children need vitamin D beginning shortly after birth. Children younger than 12 months old need 400 IU of vitamin D each day. Children 12 to 24 months old need 600 IU of vitamin D each day.

Does milk affect vitamin D absorption?

Supplementation of vitamin D3 for women with deficiency is more effectively absorbed using milk or water as the delivery vehicle, according to a Danish study presented at the European Congress of Endocrinology.

What blocks the absorption of vitamin D?

Medical conditions that can cause vitamin D deficiency include: Cystic fibrosis, Crohn’s disease and celiac disease: These conditions can prevent your intestines from adequately absorbing enough vitamin D through supplements, especially if the condition is untreated.

How do you maximize vitamin D absorption?

What helps Vitamin D absorption? Keep in mind that Vitamin D is a fat-soluble vitamin, which means it’s best absorbed in the bloodstream in the presence of dietary fat. So, if you’re taking your Vitamin D supplement at breakfast, lunch, or dinner, you can pair it with a food containing healthy fat.

Does vitamin D pass through milk?

Although circulating vitamin D readily gains access to human milk, circulating 25(OH)D does not, and this transfer relationship occurs over a massive range of vitamin D intakes and/or circulating levels.

Why is my vitamin D low if I drink milk?

Milk that’s not fortified with vitamin D, as well as human breast milk, are very low in the vitamin, so those who drink these unfortified milks should try to get their vitamin D from oily fish or a supplement. The risk of getting too much vitamin D from fortified milk is extremely low.

Is 800 IU of vitamin D too much for a baby?

Parents need to calculate the amount of vitamin D their child gets from fortified milk, other food, and vitamin supplements to make sure the total amount does not exceed: 1,000 to 1,500 IU a day for infants.

How to get vitamin D to absorb better?

Taking vitamin D with the largest meal improves absorption and results in higher serum levels of 25-hydroxyvitamin D.

Is 2 eggs a day enough vitamin D?

“Check the current USDA label on a carton of eggs and it will show that having that two-egg omelet provides 22 percent of the recommended daily allowance for vitamin D.

What are the 10 signs of low vitamin D?

What are the symptoms of vitamin D deficiency?

  • Muscle pain.
  • Bone pain.
  • Increased sensitivity to pain.
  • A tingly, “pins-and-needles” sensation in the hands or feet.
  • Muscle weakness in body parts near the trunk of the body, such as the upper arms or thighs.
  • Waddling while walking, due to muscle weakness in the hips or legs.
Natasha Lunn

Tash is an IBCLC and Business Coach helping fellow IBCLCs create fun, profitable businesses that are more than just an expensive hobby. Before becoming an IBCLC and starting her private practice - The Boobala, Tash graduated as an Osteopath in 2008 and has been in Private Practice in South West Sydney. She was also a volunteer Breastfeeding Counsellor and Community Educator with the Australian Breastfeeding Association for 6 years. Through her business, Your Lactation Biz, Tash coaches and creates products to help new and seasoned IBCLCs build businesses that suit their personality and lifestyle.

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