Introduction: In order to engage in basic and advanced human activities, a certain level of physical fitness is required. However, the latter is declining rapidly day by day, especially in the elderly. This can consequently lead to more frequent falls and associated injuries. In addition to exercise, nutrition is an important factor in slowing down and mitigating these issues. This diploma thesis focuses on vitamin D, which affects the regulation and maintenance of calcium and phosphate homeostasis. In this way, it controls muscle contraction and plays a key role in the transmission of nerve signals. Purpose: The purpose of this diploma thesis is to review the literature to determine the effect of vitamin D supplementation on muscle performance in the elderly and whether supplementation can reduce falls. We also wanted to know whether vitamin D supplementation can be a substitute for exercise. Methods: The literature search was conducted in the PubMed database using the systematic literature review method. The used keywords were “effect of vitamin D supplementation”, “vitamin D supplementation”, and “older adults”. The literature review included articles published in the last 20 years, randomised controlled trials, studies with a PEDro score of 4 or higher, studies involving older adults, and studies assessing muscle performance. Results: Six suitable studies were selected using inclusion and exclusion criteria. The studies were quite similar in terms of age of subjects, vitamin supplementation, and measurements. Subjects were assessed in the areas of muscle strength, muscle power, balance and gait. However, the results of the studies were not as consistent. Three studies showed that vitamin D supplementation contributes to improved muscle performance, while three did not. Discussion and conclusion: Based on the results of the reviewed studies, it cannot be said that vitamin D supplementation can reduce the number of recurrent falls in the elderly, nor that vitamin D supplementation can replace exercise to improve muscle performance. We also found some weaknesses in the studies we reviewed, which may lead to erroneous conclusions. It has been concluded that exercise still has the greatest effect on muscle performance and further research in this area is needed.
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