10 Ways to Get Some Vitamin D When You're Stuck Inside

Nutritionist and yoga instructor, Keri Gans suggests trying to sit by an open window for a little while. “Besides getting some vitamin D it may also help boost your mood a little,” she points out.

Sure, there are lots of Vitamin D supplements out there. But considering you may be cooped up at home for a while and likely not eating as much fresh produce as usual, you should consider taking a high quality multi-vitamin. We are fans of Ritual, a one-per-day capsule formulated for women by age, that simplifies the vitamin-taking process and is even essenced with mint to make the act of gulping down your pill a little more palatable.

If you can’t get natural light, artificial is the next best thing. “For those who can’t get outside, and especially those inside apartments that may not get much natural light, a therapy lamp is a great way to increase your light exposure,” Sara Skirboll, Shopping & Trends Expert at RetailMeNot. “In many cases these lamps can help improve mood and regulate your circadian rhythm.”

Canned fish is a great purchase right now, and not only because you can keep it in your pantry for long periods of time. Keri Gans points out that canned fish, such as tuna and salmon, are also great sources of Vitamin D.

Cow’s milk or fortified non-dairy alternative milks—including soy milk, almond milk, and oat milk—are great sources of Vitamin D, Gans explains. If you prefer to eat your dairy, choose a cheese, yogurt, or other product that is high in vitamins.

In addition to providing an abundance of Vitamin C, drinking a glass of orange juice is a great way to get a little extra Vitamin D in your system, says Gans.

Jackie Newgent, RDN, CDN, suggests cooking up some eggs for a little added Vitamin D, but notes that the nutrient is “in the yolks,” so egg whites won't cut it this time around.

“Mushrooms are the only source of vitamin D in the produce section,” reveals Newgent. For the most Vitamin D action, she suggests choosing those that have been exposed to UV light by the growers. Or, for a fun and healthy indoor activity, you can even grow your own maitakes (also known as hen of the woods mushrooms). If you really want an extra dose, make a mushroom omelet, to add additional Vitamin D from the eggs.

“Consider some Vitamin D-fortified foods, like select cereals, oatmeal, orange juice, plant milks, and plant yogurts,” suggests Newgent. “Be sure to check the labels.”

Beef liver might not be the most appetizing cut of meat, but, according to the NIH it is one of the few foods that offer even a small amount of Vitamin D.