Description
Once considered a member of the B-vitamin family, inositol was deemed “non-essential” when it was discovered that the human body can synthesize inositol from glucose. However, as is the case for many other nutrients, there are certain situations that may benefit from supplementing with inositol at levels above that which the body would typically produce.
Inositol occurs naturally in a variety of foods—fruit, in particular— but due to being bound to other compounds, it is not as bioavailable in other foods that would otherwise be good sources, such as grains and beans.
Inositol supports overall relaxation and facilitates proper metabolism of serotonin, often referred to as a “feel good neurotransmitter.” Heathy serotonin levels may help support a positive mental outlook and a healthy response to everyday stress. Through promoting overall brain wellness, inositol may also help the body cope with occasional anxiety and stressful situations.*
This underappreciated nutrient may also help support a restful night’s sleep. Sometimes called “nature’s sleeping pill,” inositol naturally helps the body achieve a more relaxed state. Taken during the day, inositol may help promote a more even-tempered mood, while if taken directly before bedtime, it may support better sleep quality.*
In addition to its role in brain health and bolstering balanced moods, inositol may help with female hormonal balance by supporting healthy liver function. The liver is a key organ in the detoxification and clearance of excess hormones, such as estrogen and progesterone, so proper support for these pathways may facilitate healthy hormone levels. Inositol also plays a role in supporting insulin sensitivity and proper carbohydrate metabolism, which may contribute to healthy blood sugar levels.*
References
† These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.
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- Unfer, V., Nestler, J. E., Kamenov, Z. A., Prapas, N., & Facchinetti, F. (2016). Effects of Inositol(s) in Women with PCOS: A Systematic Review of Randomized Controlled Trials. International Journal of Endocrinology, 2016, 1849162. https://doi.org/10.1155/2016/1849162
- Zheng, X., Liu, Z., Zhang, Y., Lin, Y., Song, J., Zheng, L., & Lin, S. (2015). Relationship Between Myo-Inositol. Supplementary and Gestational Diabetes Mellitus: A Meta-Analysis. Medicine, 94(42), e1604. https://doi. org/10.1097/MD.0000000000001604
- Zheng, X., Lin, D., Zhang, Y., Lin, Y., Song, J., Li, S., & Sun, Y. (2017). Inositol supplement improves clinical pregnancy rate in infertile women undergoing ovulation induction for ICSI or IVF-ET. Medicine, 96(49), e8842. https://doi.org/10.1097/MD.0000000000008842
- Laganà, A. S., Vitagliano, A., Noventa, M., Ambrosini, G., & D’Anna, R. (2018). Myo-inositol supplementation reduces the amount of gonadotropins and length of ovarian stimulation in women undergoing IVF: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials. Archives of Gynecology and Obstetrics, 298(4), 675–684. DOI: 10.1007/s00404-018-4861-y
- Nordio, M., & Basciani, S. (2017). Treatment with Myo-Inositol and Selenium Ensures Euthyroidism in Patients with Autoimmune Thyroiditis. International journal of endocrinology, 2017, 2549491. https://doi. org/10.1155/2017/2549491
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- Urrila, A. S. (2017). Frontal Cortex Myo-Inositol Is Associated With Sleep and Depression in Adolescents: a Proton Magnetic Resonance Spectroscopy Study. DOI: 10.26226/morressier.5885d719d462b8028d892ec0
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Warnings
Always be sure to speak with your healthcare provider before starting any new nutritional supplement when pregnant or nursing. For children, we recommend speaking with your child's pediatrician regarding proper dosing. Store away from children.
If loose stools occur, stop use and notify your healthcare practitioner.
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