Summary

Large observational studies suggest a link between low Vitamin D status and cardiovascular risk and mortality. Some of these observations are supported by findings of preclinical studies. Sufficiently large and long-term studies on virtually all important clinical cardiovascular endpoints are lacking today. Low vitaminD status is as well as other risk factors for cardiovascular diseases highly prevalent, so even small benefits in terms of cardiovascular outcomes could have large consequences for public health. DVO guidelines suggest a vitamin D intake of 800 to 2000 IE vitamin D3. With this intake one can not only prevent well known negative effects on the musculoskeletal system but also attain a possible benefit in terms of cardiovascular health aspects.