Inositol is a naturally occurring isomer of glucose and an important nutrient in the B-vitamin family. As a key component of the cellular membrane, it is involved in communication and signaling between cells. Specifically, inositol increases the sensitivity of cell receptors and has been demonstrated to increase the receptor sensitivity for serotonin, acetylcholine, norepinephrine, insulin and thyroid hormones.
Given inositol’s crucial function in regulating multiple metabolic and hormonal pathways, it should come as no surprise that research has found that inositol can play a role in a wide range of clinical indications. For example, daily doses of inositol in the range of 12-8 grams/day have been studied for its beneficial effects on mood regulation. At more moderate doses of 1-4 grams/day, inositol has been shown to effectively regulate insulin receptor sensitivity and improve fertility in women with polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS). When combined with folic acid, inositol has been demonstrated to improve in vitro fertilization (IVF) rates. Moreover, another study found that this same combination of nutrients was more effective at inducing ovulation and achieving pregnancy in infertile women with PCOS when directly compared to metformin. Finally, low doses of myoinositol have found additional benefits for thyroid health, when combined with selenium, to reduce antibody levels in the blood.
It is noteworthy that inositol exists within the body as both myo-inositol or d-chiro-inositol and that inositol can also be supplemented in either of these forms. Although tissue levels vary, myo-inositol is the predominant form within the central nervous system and is found in a 40:1 ratio to d-chiroinositol in the plasma. Both forms have demonstrated insulin-like effects and effectiveness in PCOS women when it comes to ovarian and metabolic function, while myo-inositol offers the most research to support its use in mood disorders.
Cyto-Inositol provides 4 grams of pure myo-inositol per scoop in order to provide an evidence-based amount in each serving, allowing for tailored doses depending on clinical concerns and goals. Cyto-Inositol is unflavored and delivered in a 500 gram container.
