DR. WALKER

Can Inositol Help in Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome/PCOS

What is Inositol?

Inositol or myo-inositol is a type of sugar that is very similar to glucose that has some promising effects on managing insulin resistance. It is sometimes referred to as vitamin B8; although not actually a vitamin. It is thought to improve insulin sensitivity and can increasing intracellular glucose transportation. Inositol has high antioxidant properties speaking to its ability to be a free radicals scavenger. Additionally, inositol functions as an anxiolytic, being able to reduce anxiety, especially due to mild stressors. It is found in high concentration in the brain, and assists with a wide range of mental health conditions. There are some natural foods with inositol including: coconut/coconut oil, almonds, leafy vegetables to include spinach, and asparagus.

What conditions can Inositol assist with?

Polycystic ovarian syndrome/PCOS. This is a condition that has been associated with insulin resistance. Inositol is able to reduce high insulin levels by better blood sugar control. Additionally, inositol was able to decrease testosterone levels in patients suffering from PCOS by more than 70%. It appears that when hormonal levels are stabilized, symptoms of PCOS decreases. This supplement works extremely well, especially when combined with things like intermittent fasting. It works even better when carbohydrates, and sugars are also restricted. The idea is that once insulin resistance has been improved then androgenic effects will likewise improve.
Metabolic syndrome. People with metabolic syndrome have a known associated risk for strokes, heart attacks, and type 2 diabetes. Inositol is able to help to manage the risks associated with metabolic syndrome, specifically helping to manage blood pressure, blood sugars, and abdominal obesity. Best results are seen in people taking 2 g of the supplement twice daily. Blood pressures and blood sugars were so well controlled, that some of the test subjects in the study were no longer considered to fit the “metabolic syndrome” profile.
Depression. Inositol is believed to help with the symptoms of depression, by assisting with the regulation of both serotonin and dopamine. These benefits are best observed when taking the supplements for at least 4 weeks.
Anxiety. People with anxiety or panic disorders may have several episodes of intense panic attacks in a given week. Several studies suggest that people taking inositol had overall fewer panic attacks, when taking the supplement, as compared to people taking traditional anxiety medications.

How much inositol is required?

There is no set or standard dosage recommendation for this supplement. It is generally considered safe for adults. Usually 4000 mg at breakfast time has been shown to offer beneficial result. For other conditions to include metabolic syndrome and PCOS about 2 grams have been utilized. That being said, very little complications has been seen with doses as high as 12 gram.