There are few more terrifying parts of aging than vision loss. It’s one thing to need a stronger prescription for eyeglasses every few years or so – but it’s quite another when your deteriorating vision starts to rob you of your independence.

Folks suffering from age-related macular degeneration can lose the ability to read, drive, and even recognize the faces of their friends and loved ones. It’s an agonizing condition, but new research shows that a simple vitamin regimen can help you prevent it.

A new study out of Brigham and Women’s Hospital in Boston found that women who took a combination of B vitamins – specifically B-6, B-12 and folic acid, reduced their risk of macular degeneration by one-third compared to women who took a placebo.

The reduction didn’t happen overnight. The study charted the women over the course of seven years. It proves what I’ve been saying all along – one of the greatest benefits of vitamins and supplements is what they can do for you through long-term, repeated use.

The researchers think that B vitamins may help prevent macular degeneration because they lower homocysteine, a substance in your blood that’s been linked to heart disease. Lowering homocysteine may be particular important for the small, sensitive blood vessels of the eye.

If you’re concerned about vision loss – and if your worried about macular degeneration in particular – it makes sense to consider vitamin B supplements or a multi-vitamin with a full supply of vitamin B. Aside from helping your vision, B vitamins are important for metabolism, central nervous support and even for staving off depression.

These vitamins are inexpensive, widely available and safe – and their only side effect is overall good health.