Delveinto the world of inositol – a supplement that offers a multitude of healthbenefits, especially for women with PCOS. Discover the benefits, including itsrole in improving insulin sensitivity.

Key takeaways

• Inositol is a naturally occurring sugar molecule that can aid in the management of various health conditions, including PCOS.
• Inositol supplements may enhance insulin sensitivity, thus beneficial for conditions associated with insulin resistance, such as PCOS.
• Myo-inositol and D-chiro inositol are two beneficial types that may be associated with improved egg quality.

Inositol, a type of natural health supplement, is a type of sugar molecule found in various foods like fresh fruits, vegetables, grains, and nuts. This beneficial compound also occurs in small quantities within our bodies. Its primary functions include regulating blood sugar levels by enhancing insulin sensitivity and promoting healthy cell growth.

What are the benefits of inositol for PCOS?

Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) affects 5%-21% of women of childbearing age, many of whom have insulin resistance, regardless of weight. This affects their blood glucose levels and androgen levels, affecting periods, fertility and weight loss. They are also at a higher risk for developing type 2 diabetes in future.

Insulin communicates with cells using molecules, including myo-inositol and D-chiro inositol, which help regulate sugar usage and storage. A lack of these molecules or issues with their transformation process can cause insulin resistance.

In a study, taking 1200 mg of D-chiro inositol daily for 8 weeks significantly lowered insulin and male hormone levels in obese PCOS patients, also regulating their periods. PCOS patients who weren't overweight also benefited.

Myo-inositol and D-chiro inositol are the most beneficial types. They can improve egg quality — a critical factor for women trying to conceive. An increase in these types can result in better ovarian response and higher birth rates.

How to incorporate it into your diet

Women with PCOS may notice a range of inositol benefits. However, it's recommended that you consult with a healthcare professional to determine what is right for you.

Many common foods and dietary supplements are rich sources. To achieve optimal results, it's advisable to start with a lower dose and gradually increase it as your body adapts.

Foods high in myo-inositol include:

• Citrus fruits
• Brown rice
• Nuts
• Rockmelon
• Oats
• Beans
• Bananas
• Pears
• Peaches
• Wheat bran

Inositol vs conventional medicine for PCOS

It offers several benefits to women with PCOS, such as improved insulin sensitivity, reduced androgen levels, and increased fertility. Myo-inositol may also enhance ovarian functions, thereby improving the body's response to fertility treatments like in vitro fertilisation (IVF).

Traditional medications for PCOS, such as metformin, can prevent gestational diabetes in pregnant women with PCOS by assisting in blood sugar control. However, these medications come with a host of adverse effects like nausea, vomiting, lethargy, diarrhoea, and in severe cases, lactic acidosis.

In contrast, the side effects of myo-inositol are typically milder, with symptoms like nausea, dizziness, or gas often disappearing quickly. A systematic review of clinical trials found no side effects in pregnant women receiving up to four grams daily.

It's important to speak with your doctor to determine the right PCOS treatment approach for you before trying anything new.

In addition, leveraging technology can also play a pivotal role in managing PCOS. Vively, a metabolic health app, offers a comprehensive platform to help women with PCOS improve their glucose control using continuous glucose monitors (CGM). With its personalised health insights, Vively can help you make informed dietary and lifestyle decisions, thus further enhancing the management of your PCOS symptoms.