RESUMEN
The discovery of a receptor for vitamin D in most cells suggested a role in other body systems, not only the impact on the body's calcium economy. Epidemiological studies found that lower levels of cholecalciferol coexists with cardiovascular diseases. The aim of the study was to evaluate the factors influencing the serum concentration of vitamin in the population of the region of Cracow and to assess and compare the rate of consumption of food products rich in vitamin D in patients with hypertension and with normal blood pressure. In the studied population, the higher the age of the subjects, and the later the month of the year the sample was taken, the lower the vitamin D serum concentrations. Low body mass index and body fat were associated with higher levels of cholecalciferol. Additionally, deficiency of vitamin D was caused by insufficient supply of food products rich in cholecalciferol.