Consuming a daily multivitamin or herbal supplement may do more than simply keep adults feeling sharp and energetic. A new study suggests that high levels of vitamin D may be able to prevent or slow the process of macular degeneration (MD) among mature American women.

Published in the journal Archives of Ophthalmology, the research found that women with early-onset MD – a condition in which the eye’s retina degrades over time – may be able to prevent the onset of the ailment by taking vitamin D supplements.

The study’s participants, all of whom were women under the age of 75, were tested for their blood levels of the nutrient, and their dietary habits were recorded as well.

Those who consumed the most vitamin D had a 59 percent lower chance of having developed age-related MD than those whose intake of the nutrient was the lowest.

Scientists concluded that in addition to supporting strong bones and efficient calcium uptake, regular vitamin D consumption may be good for aging women’s eyes.

Individuals who do not consume adequate amounts of liver, eggs, mushrooms or dairy products – which are the prime food sources of the substance – may consider getting their vitamin D from a multivitamin.