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(NEW YORK) -- For many years, doctors have been looking at the role of Vitamin B in reducing stroke risks. Now, new research suggests the supplements could, in fact, help.

The theory is that B vitamins, especially B12, lower blood levels of homocysteine, an amino acid tied to blood vessel problems. In other words, the homocysteine levels are linked to the arteries' potential to harden or become narrow -- or not.

For the study, published in the journal Neurology, researchers at Zhengzhou University looked at 14 randomized clinical stroke trials with a total of 54,913 participants. All of the studies compared B vitamin use with a placebo or a very low-dose B vitamin.

There were 2,471 strokes throughout the studies, and, overall, there was a 7-percent decreased risk of stroke in people taking B vitamins. Oddly, though, in more detailed analysis there was no change in stroke risk based on homocysteine or B12 levels.

Overall, the association still remains unclear.

Vitamin B is an essential nutrient to the body's overall health. Aside from taking supplements, B vitamins can be consumed naturally through foods like some types of beans, beef liver, potato skins or bananas.

While researchers say the findings represent progress in stroke prevention efforts, more study is needed on the topic.  You should consult with your physician before taking any new supplements.

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