Introduction

The most common endocrine disorder is polycystic ovary syndrome which affects 5 – 20% of women of childbearing age. PCOS is also the cause for infertility in women. The diagnosis of PCOS is done based on Rotterdam criteria which means the presence of at least two of the following criteria – Ovulatory dysfunction, hyperandrogenism or polycystic ovary morphology. There are various forms of Inositol which play an important role in bodily functions. Each compound has its own chemical structure that is similar to the main sugar which is found in the blood glucose. 

What is Inositol?

Inositol is a form of sugar that our body naturally produces which gives structure to our cells. It is produced by our body from glucose by the kidney making about 2g per day. It is found in many foods like meat, fruits, corn, beans, grains and legumes. Research suggests that taking Inositol supplements can be beneficial to health.

Inositol is also known as vitamin B8 which performs many important functions. It plays a major role in the development of cell membranes. Inositol may have a effect on insulin. It may also help our body manage metabolic and mental health conditions.

Supplements

• • Myo – inositol

• • D-chiro- inositol

• • Inositol hexaphosphate
    
    

Benefits of Inositol

Our body needs Inositol for the functioning and development of cells. Research is under process for other varied health reasons.

1. Metabolic syndrome

Metabolic syndrome is a group of risk factors which gives rise to various chronic diseases including heart disease, stroke, and diabetes.

• • Storage of fat in the abdominal area.

• • Elevated triglycerides 

• • Low HDL cholesterol 

• • Hypertension 

• • Hypotension

Inositol supplement helps us to get better from these metabolic risk factors. Make sure to talk to your healthcare provider before starting the supplementation.

2. Polycystic ovary syndrome

Polycystic ovary syndrome is a hormone related disorder which affects women. Cysts with enlarged ovaries can cause:

• • Infertility

• • Irregular periods

• • Acne

• • Weight gain

• • Excess hair growth

Inositol supplements along with folic acid helps to improve many of the symptoms with PCOS. This includes hypertension, hypotension, low triglycerides level. 

Supplements can also promote ovulation and increase pregnancy rates. Make sure to talk to your healthcare provider before starting the supplementation. Inositol therapy (MI and DCI) helps improve signs and symptoms and laboratory abnormalities of PCOS. 

Inositol increases the required inositol concentrations in both systemic circulation and the ovary. Inositol helps to improve the functions of the ovaries and fertility with PCOS. The study used around 2- 4 g per day, obesity, overweight and in normal weight the benefits can be seen.

3. Gestational diabetes 

Gestational diabetes causes blood sugar levels to be too high during the pregnancy. This may cause complications during pregnancy which includes the risk of preterm birth. Preterm is defined as the baby born before 37 weeks of gestation. Taking Inositol supplement with folic acid lowers the risk of gestational diabetes and preterm birth. Make sure to talk to your healthcare provider before starting the supplementation.

4. Depression

Depression is a mental health condition which causes persistent feelings of sadness and loss of interest in the activity which is done with enjoyment. Some studies say that people with depression have low levels of Inositol in the brain. Inositol supplements also help to balance the hormones in the brain  which includes serotonin and dopamine. Make sure to talk to your healthcare provider before starting the supplementation. Recent studies have shown that taking 12 grams of Inositol per day can reduce the symptoms of depression.

5. Panic disorder

Panic disorder which are sudden, temporary, feelings of fear with strong physical reactions and it is a type of anxiety disorder which may be unexpected panic attacks. By taking Inositol supplements you may have reduced the number and severity of panic attacks. Do not stop medications without the advice of your healthcare professional. Make sure to talk to your healthcare provider before starting the supplementation. Inositol supplements can increase symptoms that are associated with the conditions affecting serotonin.

6. Bipolar disorder

Bipolar disorder is a condition which causes intense mood shifts, changes in energy, thinking capacity and behavioural change. By taking Inositol supplements you may reduce the symptoms in bipolar disorder. Make sure to talk to your healthcare provider before starting the supplementation.

How can Inositol be taken?

Inositol is found in various foods such as beans, fruits, grains, and nuts but is also important to get recommended doses from supplements. There are 9 forms of Inositol from which 2 are naturally found in the body. These are Myo – inositol, D-chiro- inositol. Most of the supplements will contain either or both compounds. It is recommended to take supplements which contain both compounds in the ratio of 40:1 which shows results with no side effects. Most importantly it is best to talk to your healthcare provider before starting the supplementation.

Most supplements come in the form of powder or capsule. The powder can be dissolved in hot and cold water and can be consumed twice a day. When Inositol supplements are taken with meals it lowers blood glucose levels and insulin. The dose for insulin sensitivity and fertility are much lower than the dose for neurological conditions.

Side effects of Inositol

Increased dose of Inositol causes hypoglycaemia and mild gastrointestinal problems such as nausea, flatus and diarrhoea. There are no side effects when Inositol is taken regularly. Some research suggests that it helps in better ovulation and pregnancy outcomes.

Conclusion

Inositol is a carbohydrate which is found naturally in the body and in certain foods. Inositol has many positive results towards the treatment of PCOS. Inositol is a B vitamin which is made by the body to manage blood glucose levels, metabolism, fertility. During PCOS it is best to take inositol supplements but it is always a good idea to make decisions based on your doctor’s advice. Diet contains only small amounts of inositol, taking supplements may be beneficial for some. Make sure to discuss with healthcare professionals before taking any supplements.

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Nesha Felciya,
Clinical Dietitian, Simplyweight