Inositol: what it is, properties and what it is for

Inositol is one of the natural supplements that has aroused the most interest in recent years due to its properties and benefits for hormonal health and fertility, but it is also known for its action on the cardiovascular system and other benefits. It is also often talked about myo-inositol or myo-inositol.

In this article we will tell you what inositol is, how it differs from myo-inositol, what it is for and how it is used.

What is inositol

Inositol is a substance similar to the B vitamins., which the body can make on its own and is also found in some foods. It is essential for the formation of cell membranes and fulfills many important functions in the body, especially in relation to the hormone balance and with him fat metabolism.

In the body, the organs responsible for producing inositol are kidneys and liverbut we can also obtain inositol through the intake of many foods, especially vegetables.

The body produces about 4 g of inositol per day. and this is the amount that is usually used in studies on the therapeutic effects of supplementation. The foods can provide between 1 and 2 g added.

Foods with inositol include grapefruit juice (470 mg in 120 ml), the peanut butter (91 mg in 30 g), the green beans (54 mg in 100 g), the Brussels sprouts (40 mg in 100 g) or the wholemeal bread (34mg in 100g). Inositol is released during digestion from phytic acid, a natural component of fiber found in the uppermost layers of vegetables.

Is inositol and myo-inositol the same thing?

Myo-inositol is one of nine isomers or forms in which the inositol molecule occurs.

It is the form of inositol with the highest biological activity. and the most used for the manufacture of supplements. Therefore, it can be said that the words inositol and myoinositol are synonymous.

Properties of inositol and what it is for

Inositol is attributed beneficial properties to regulate the menstrual cycle, protect cardiovascular health

Let’s see them one by one:

Regulates the menstrual cycle and improves polycystic ovary syndrome

According to a study carried out at the University of Insubria (Italy), inositol can improve metabolic state, regulate the menstrual cycle and even, restore ovulation if it has been lost.

A review published in An International Journal of Obstetrics and Gyneacology points out that the inositol supplementation improves symptoms of polycystic ovary syndromethe most common female disorder in women of childbearing age.

obesity, hypertension or resistance to the action of the hormone insulin,

Research shows that it also helps with other syndrome-related problems, such as

It controls blood sugar levels.

Improves female and male fertility

The investigations carried out are not conclusive, but inositol could help fertility, thanks to the hormonal regulating effect in women and on the sperm quality. Currently, it is a supplement that is recommended to promote success of in vitro fertility treatments.

Inositol can help male fertility specifically by improving sperm quality. According to a study published in the International Journal of Endicronologyinositol supplementation increased the total number and motility of sperm in men with infertility of uncertain cause.

Reduces blood pressure and cholesterol

Inositol can improve the values ​​of blood pressure and the cholesterol and triglyceride levels in blood. Therefore, it could reduce the risk of developing cardiovascular diseases, both in women and in men.

Help in menopause

Menopause increases the risk of developing metabolic syndrome, with insulin resistance, obesity, high cholesterol and triglycerides, and high blood pressure. Inositol helps correct these menopause-related imbalances.

Could help in diabetes

In combination with folic acid (2 g of inositol and 400 mcg of folic acid per day), inositol may help lower blood glucose levelsalways within the framework of an adequate diet for diabetes: low in carbohydrates and nutritionally balanced.

could improve mood

The brain is the organ where inositol is found in the greatest quantity and is involved in neuronal communication. Studies have been carried out with high doses that suggest a positive action on the obsessive-compulsive disordersthe anxiety and the depression.

Contributes to cancer prevention

Studies cited by the Memorial Sloan Kettering-Cancer Center indicate that various forms of inositol may have beneficial effects in cancer prevention.

This is one more reason to eat vegetables, whole grains, and legumes, all of which are foods that naturally provide inositol.

How is inositol taken?

When inositol is taken in supplement form, it is best to take it separately from meals because it can reduce the absorption of minerals such as calcium, magnesium or iron.

On the other hand, it is interesting combine inositol with folic acidespecially in the treatment of polycystic ovary syndrome.

Inositol Contraindications

Inositol is well tolerated. According to a review by the Agunco Obstetrics and Gynecology Center (Rome), a very high dose of 12 g per day causes at most flatulence or diarrhea.

However, it is not recommended in pregnancy.