If you have PCOS there is a good chance that you will have heard of Inositol supplements. Recently, there has been a lot of buzz about the use of Inositol and Myo-Inositol for treating PCOS. But there is also a lot of uncertainty about what exactly Inositol is and how it benefits women?
To clear the confusion, we will share with you research-based information about Inositol. Learn about how Myo-Inositol & D-Chiro Inositol supplement works and its benefits for you.
Inositol is a type of Vitamin B8 that falls in the category of pseudo vitamins. [1] Pseudo vitamins are an essential for the body but they do not affect one’s health when their levels deplete.
Inositol is called a vitamin, but it is more a type of sugar as its molecules are structurally similar to glucose. Inositol supports fat metabolism, insulin signalling, and nerve functioning [2]. We find it in whole grains, beans, nuts, and fruits. The human body also makes Inositol on its own.
Now that we understand Inositol, let’s us explain what Myo-Inositol & D-Chiro Inositol are –
Myo-Inositol & D-Chiro Inositol sound almost similar – there are important differences between the two.
Let us explain.
There are nine types of Inositol occurring. The two most common types of Inositol are –
We need a 40: 1 Myo-Inositol to D-Chiro-Inositol ratio in our body for healthy functioning [3].
Myo-Inositol is proven to have a beneficial role in pregnancy. Let’s understand how it works.
We all agree that healthy bodies need a balance of various vitamins and minerals. The same applies to the balance of Inositols in our body.
Suppose there is an imbalance in the conversion of Myo-Inositol into D-Chiro-Inositol. This will cause the chemical signal chain in our body to break. In women, this can cause high levels of testosterone in the body. It also leads to high blood sugar and high insulin levels. These conditions cause PCOS, endometriosis, and other infertility issues [4].
Now, new studies have proven that Myo-Inositol promotes ovulation and helps regulate periods. Medical practitioners recommend Myo-Inositol & D-Chiro Inositol supplements to PCOS patients. It improves the function of the ovaries and ovulation, and boosts pregnancy rates [4].
Myo-inositol supplements during pregnancy reduce the risk of gestational diabetes.This is because of improved insulin sensivity.- HERA
Healthy eggs are essential for fertility and to get pregnant. Poor egg quality is often the determining factor in whether you can get pregnant.
One role Inositol plays in fertility is the development of follicles. This improves the quality of the egg.
Inositol also increases insulin sensitivity of the ovary, which also boosts egg quality.
In women with PCOS, the cellular processes that produce and use Inositol do not function. This causes insulin resistance and hormone imbalances. For women with PCOS, Myo-inositol improves insulin sensitivity and reduces insulin levels.
Most women with PCOS have menstrual and ovulatory problems. Taking Myo-inositol supplements helps to regulate periods and improves egg health and ovulation. This promotes fertility and boosts chances of pregnancy.
Word Of Caution: Myo-inositol supplementation is only recommended for infertility caused due to PCOS. Women with infertility caused due to POI (premature ovarian ageing) have abnormally low androgen levels, and in this case, Myo-inositol can lead to fertility complications. .- HERA
People with depression and anxiety have lower levels of Inositol in their brain. Inositol balances essential mood altering hormones in your brain: serotonin and dopamine. So doctors prescribe it as an alternative treatment for mental health conditions [7]. These include bipolar disorder, depression, panic attacks, obsessive-compulsive disorders, or eating disorders. It also has fewer side effects.
What is the recommended Myo-inositol & d-Chiro Inositol dosage?
Research suggests a dosage of 2 × 2000 mg Myo-inositol along with 2 × 200 μg folic acid per day. This Myo-inositol & d-Chiro Inositol dosage for 2 to 3 months can help improve PCOS symptoms. [1]
Myo-inositol is most effective when consumed as a supplement rather than from food. It is unlikely that food sources can give high enough levels to achieve the desired outcome.
Myo-inositol is safe. Mild side effects include gastrointestinal discomfort due to nausea, flatulence and diarrhea. It can also cause dizziness, tiredness and headache.
A decrease in androgens (male hormones)
A decrease in triglycerides, total and LDL cholesterol levels
Lower systolic and diastolic blood pressure.
Improvement in skin problems, such as acne and hirsutism
Word Of Caution patients with existing medical conditions or taking prescribed medication should always consult a medical expert before taking Myo-inositol..- HERA
Currently, there is plenty of medical evidence to support using Myo-inositol in PCOS. Myo-Inositol & D-Chiro Inositol supplements for relief from the symptoms of PCOS. Myo-inositol in PCOS. Myo-Inositol & D-Chiro Inositol supplements are proven to improve hormonal, metabolic and ovulatory functions.
However, the International PCOS Network says that Inositol (in any form) should be considered an experimental therapy in the treatment of PCOS and fertility. It also encourages women taking Inositol to advise their health care team about the supplements and dosage that they are taking.
If you are looking for nutritional supplements to boost your fertility, check out Hera’s Plan Essentials. They offer all the vitamins that help in fighting against the symptoms of PCOS, regulate your period and boost the egg health.