holistic health

Vitamin D is an essential nutrient that you need for healthy bones, muscles, and more. But did you know that you can get your vitamin D from plants? Yes, it's true - there are plenty of vegan-friendly sources of this important vitamin. Here are 3 plant sources of vitamin D to add to your diet so that you can get the nutrition you need without consuming any animal products.

Fungi, especially Mushrooms and have long been known to contain high levels of Vitamin D. They're easy to incorporate into meals like stir-fries and soups, and they're also delicious when eaten roasted or sautéed on their own. You can even buy mushrooms that have been exposed to ultraviolet light - the process of exposing mushrooms to UV light increases their vitamin D content by as much as 10 times!  Edible varieties such as shiitake mushrooms, truffles, chanterelles, porcini mushrooms, morels, and oyster mushrooms are all excellent sources of this important nutrient - just make sure you cook them thoroughly before eating!  Yeast also has some Vitamin D.  

Algae like spirulina and chlorella are superfoods that are high in protein and loaded with vitamins and minerals, including vitamin D. Algae powder can be added to smoothies or juices for an extra nutritional boost or sprinkled over salads for a chewy texture. It's also available as capsules if you don't want to incorporate it into your cooking.  

Lichens are a type of fungi that grow on trees and rocks in forests all over the world. They're a great source of both vitamins A and D, which makes them an ideal choice for vegans looking to get their daily dose of these nutrients without eating animal products. Lichens can be found in dried form at health food stores, where they'll often come with instructions on how best to prepare them - usually by soaking them overnight before adding them to soups or stews.  My favorite vegan D3 supplement uses lichen!

No matter what type of diet you follow—plant-based or vegan included—it's important to make sure you're getting enough vital nutrients like Vitamin D every day for overall health and well-being. Fortunately, there are plenty of plant sources out there, so you don't have to rely on animal products for your nutrition needs! The 3 sources listed above are all excellent choices when it comes to getting your daily dose of Vitamin D — so don't forget about them next time you hit the grocery store!

When I was pregnant with my 7th child, I was depleted.  I was so exhausted that I was falling asleep at the dinner table every night.  A friend recommended this antioxidant drink to me, and I was desperate, so I tried it.  The very first day, I drank some in the afternoon just before my energy levels usually tanked. I went through the afternoon and surprisingly stayed awake through dinner. In fact, I was awake until 10, which was impossible before!  I never felt a rush, and I never had a crash; I just kept going.  I kept drinking it, and it had the same effect every day.  I drank a whole bottle during labor and delivery and then kept drinking it throughout my time breastfeeding. It was my lifesaver with such little sleep. I have not stopped drinking it because of its continued benefits!   

Are you looking for a healthy snack for your kids that won't leave them feeling sluggish? Look no further! Plant-based snacks are the perfect way to fuel your little ones with all the nutrients they need. From fruits and veggies to nuts, seeds, beans, and whole grains, there is something delicious and nutritious to suit every occasion. 

Fruits and vegetables are some of the healthiest snacks around. Their natural sweetness makes them a great alternative to sugary treats, while their high fiber content ensures your kids (and you!) will stay fuller for longer. Try incorporating colorful fruits like watermelon or oranges into your kid's snack time routine, or serve up veggie sticks with hummus or guacamole as an after school treat. These are the best fast foods and can be prepared the night before for easy grab & go snacks the next day.

Nuts and seeds are another great plant-based snack option. Not only are they packed with vitamins and minerals such as zinc, magnesium, iron and vitamin E; but they also contain healthy proteins & fats that can help support brain development in growing children. Try offering trail mix with nuts and seeds as a tasty snack on the go, or bake up some energy balls made from peanut or almond butter, oats and dried fruit for a sweet treat that won't leave your little one bouncing off the walls afterwards! 

  

Like nuts and seeds, beans provide plenty of essential vitamins and minerals but are also high in protein and fiber - making them an ideal snack choice for active children who need fuel throughout the day. Serve up some homemade bean dip with vegetable sticks or pita bread; make a batch of homemade hummus; or try out some quinoa bowls topped with roasted veggies! For an extra boost of nutrition, look out for whole grain options with brown rice or oatmeal instead of refined grains like white bread or pasta. 

With so many delicious plant-based snacks to choose from, it's never been easier to give your kids the nutrition they need without sacrificing taste! Whether you're looking for something quick on the go or something more substantial after school, there's sure to be something that suits their needs - not to mention yours! So take a break from processed snacks and try something new today - your kids will thank you later!

Have picky eaters?  Grab this guide:  7 Strategies to Help Picky Eaters Eat!

Do you want to get your daily dose of vitamin D without relying on fortified foods or supplements? If so, you’re in luck! There are plenty of natural ways to get your daily intake.  Obviously, getting out in the sun is a fabulous way to get Vitamin D; there are some foods you can eat to get it, too.  Read on for some tips and tricks to get the vitamin D you need straight from the source.

Cod liver oil is one of the best sources of natural vitamin D and has been used for centuries as a natural remedy. It can be taken orally in liquid form or as a capsule supplement. It also contains Omega-3 fatty acids, which are beneficial for overall health and wellness.

Fatty fish, such as salmon, tuna, mackerel, herring, sardines, and anchovies, all contain high levels of vitamin D and omega-3 fatty acids. Eating these types of fish regularly will help you get your daily intake of both vitamins and minerals.  Make sure they are wild caught, as the farm raised fish have contamination. My favorite non-vegan Omega 3 supplement also has Vitamin D3 and CoQ10.

Egg yolks are also an excellent source of natural vitamin D and can be consumed raw or cooked in various dishes. Egg yolks are also rich in protein and other nutrients like iron, calcium, phosphorus, and B vitamins.

Aside from getting enough sun, these are just a few simple ways to get your daily dose of vitamin D naturally without having to rely on fortified foods or supplements. Eating a balanced diet with plenty of fruits and vegetables is always a good idea, since they contain small amounts of natural Vitamin D that can add up over time if you’re consistent with it. Looking for Vegan Sources of Vitamin D?  I wrote about them here.  So keep these tips in mind when planning out your meals and snack times! Holistic moms everywhere will thank you for it down the line!