What Is It?

Inositol is a component of the B-complex family and is mainly found in the diet as myo-inositol. It aids in the management of PCOS’s hormonal and metabolic conditions by promoting healthy glucose metabolism. It also helps to normalize menstrual cycle irregularities and restore normal ovarian function, ovulation and oocyte quality, while reducing serum testosterone and decreasing oxidative stresses in women with PCOS.

Uses For Inositol

Glucose metabolism:

Women with PCOS experience various hormonal and metabolic conditions resulting from increased insulin production. For example, high levels of insulin can affect glucose metabolism and lead to weight gain. Research suggests that myo-inositol helps to manage these conditions by supporting healthy glucose metabolism. Myo-inositol promotes the production of compounds involved in glucose uptake, including inositolphosphoglycans and phosphoinositide 3-kinase. One randomized controlled study involving women with PCOS reported that myo inositol administration decreased the glucose to insulin ratio, homeostatic model assessment (HOMA) index for insulin resistance, and insulin levels after an oral glucose tolerance test.

This suggests that myo-inositol may also promote healthy glucose metabolism in women with PCOS by supporting pancreatic ß-cell function.

Ovarian Function and Menstrual Cycle Regularity:

Insulin may also stimulate the secretion of male sex hormones in the ovaries. High levels of these hormones can lead to excessive hair growth, acne and abnormal ovulation. In addition, women often experience menstrual cycle irregularities and infertility. Myo-inositol plays an important role in the inositol triphosphate second messenger system that regulates oocyte development and menstrual cycle hormones.

Research suggests that myo-inositol increases inositol levels and calcium-signalling necessary for oocyte maturation and quality. One double-blind study in women with PCOS reported that myo-inositol supplementation decreased the time to first ovulation, increased ovulation frequency and elevated estradiol levels (a marker of follicular maturation). A similar clinical study reported that myo-inositol supplementation improved follicle size and quality in women with PCOS undergoing assisted fertility techniques. Additionally, a clinical study reported that myo-inositol administration decreased serum testosterone levels in women with PCOS.

What Is The Source?

Myo-inositol is derived from rice bran.

Recommended Dose

Adults: Take 1 scoop 1 – 2 times daily, or as directed by a healthcare professional. Use for a minimum of 12 weeks to see beneficial effects.

Warning

Consult a healthcare practitioner before taking this product if you are pregnant or breastfeeding. Consult a healthcare practitioner if symptoms persist or worsen.