Inositol Information and Benefits

Inositol is a simple carbohydrate (sugar) that plays an important role in chemical reactions in the body associated with the production of glucose. Inositol facilitates communication between neurons and helps the nervous system to function. As a result, it is said to help people who suffer from numbness and nerve damage due to diabetes.

Although inositol is sometimes called a member of the B complex of vitamins, it is really not a vitamin. Vitamins are considered essential to the human diet, and though inositol is valuable, it is not essential for life. That said, inositol does perform some important functions in the body, working closely with the entire B complex, as well as with the choline.

Inositol plays an important role in maintaining cell membranes. This is particularly true of highly specialized cell membranes, such as the brain, bone marrow, eye and intestines. In addition to facilitating communication between nerve cells and helping to transport fats throughout the body, inositol is said to promote hair growth and control estrogen levels.

It may also have a role as an anticancer agent. Signs of inositol deficiency include hair loss, eczema, high cholesterol, constipation, and eye problems.

People who consume a great deal of caffeine or take antiobiotics for long periods of time may have an increased need for inositol, because both of these substances interfere with its effectiveness.

Inositol supplements are often used to treat symptoms of depression and anxiety. Since neurotransmitters like serotonin (which is related to feelings of calm and well-being) depend on inositol to function, it may play an important role in preventing and eliminating mood disorders. Clinical evidence suggests that large doses (12-18 grams) of inositol can decrease the frequency and severity of panic attacks, improve symptoms of depression and increase attention in patients with attention deficit disorder.

Inositol is available from both plant and animal sources. In addition, the body is capable of making its own inositol.

Dietary sources include wheat germ, Brewer's yeast, veal, pork, liver, brown rice, wheat bran, oat flakes, nuts, vegetables, cantaloupe, raisins, and bananas.

In its plant form, inositol exists as a fiber known as phytate, which may have anticancer properties. The existence of inositol as a plant fiber may help explain why a high fiber diet is associated with low rates of cancer.

It is important to note, though, that too much phytate can bind with calcium, iron and zinc and interfere with the absorption of those minerals. Inositol supplements, however, do not have the same binding effect. When used as a supplement, equal amounts of choline should be taken with inositol. The entire B complex, as well as vitamins C and E, folic acid and linoleic acid are thought to increase the function of inositol, so it is often part of a multivitamin and mineral supplement.

Though few side effects have been reported from taking supplements, diarrhea is a possible side effect of large doses of inositol. In addition, pregnant women and people with chronic renal failure should consult a physician before using it.

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