From the Guidelines
Inositol, specifically myo-inositol, is a naturally occurring sugar-alcohol that plays a crucial role in cell signaling and is involved in the management of cardiometabolic and reproductive deregulation in conditions like polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) 1.
Definition and Forms of Inositol
Inositol exists in nine different forms, with myo-inositol being the most common in the human body. It is found in many foods, including beans, whole grains, nuts, and seeds, which are core food groups that may signal lower inositol intakes in PCOS due to poorer dietary intakes of these groups 1.
Dietary Sources and Supplementation
Inositol can be found in various foods and can also be produced by the body. As a dietary supplement, inositol is typically taken in doses ranging from 2-18 grams daily, with specific dosing depending on the condition being treated, such as PCOS 1.
Mechanism of Action and Effects
It works by improving insulin sensitivity, regulating hormones, and supporting neurotransmitter function, which are crucial for managing symptoms of conditions like PCOS and potentially aiding in metabolic disorders and supporting mental health conditions like depression and anxiety 1.
Tolerance and Side Effects
The body generally tolerates inositol well, with mild digestive discomfort being the most common side effect at higher doses, highlighting the importance of considering individual tolerance when supplementing with inositol 1.
Cellular Level Action
Inositol participates in second messenger systems that help cells respond to external signals, particularly those involving insulin and neurotransmitters, underscoring its role in cellular signaling and regulation 1.
From the Research
Definition and Properties of Inositol
- Inositol is a natural sugar-like compound commonly found in many plants and foods 2.
- It is involved in several biochemical pathways, including cell development, signaling, and nuclear processes, metabolic and endocrine modulation, cell growth, and signal transduction 2.
- Myo-inositol (myo-Ins) and D-chiro-inositol (D-chiro-Ins) are two natural compounds involved in many biological pathways, including endocrine signal transduction 3.
Biological Functions and Applications
- Inositol plays a role in human brain physiology and pathology, and its potential applications in psychiatric disorders have been explored 2.
- Myo-inositol and D-chiro-inositol supplementation has contributed to clinical approaches in ameliorating many gynecological and endocrinological diseases, including polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) and gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) 3.
- Inositol has insulin-mimetic properties and can lower post-prandial blood glucose levels, making it a potential treatment for metabolic diseases 4.
- Antenatal dietary supplementation with myo-inositol has been shown to reduce the incidence of gestational diabetes in pregnant women 5.
Mechanisms of Action
- Inositol participates in insulin signaling and glucose metabolism by influencing distinct pathways, including the inositol-3-phosphate synthase 1 pathway 6.
- Myo-inositol and D-chiro-inositol can influence steroidogenesis, regulating the pools of androgens and estrogens, and can mediate insulin-induced testosterone biosynthesis and estrogen synthesis 3.
- Inositol can also affect cellular transmembrane transport and intracellular levels of glucose and its metabolites 6.