Inositol capsules are used in natural treatments for depression, anxiety, OCD and other mood disorders.
This supplement has a number of additional medicinal uses such as alleviating symptoms of PCOS, supporting weight loss, improving neural and cardiovascular health and it may possess anti-cancer effects.
Inositol is a type of sugar or simple carbohydrate that plays a vital role in a number of the chemical reactions in the body. It is a naturally occurring glucose isomer and is sometimes used as a no-calorie sweetener.
Previously, Inositol was categorized as a B-complex vitamin and was denoted as vitamin B8. However, it is no longer considered to be a vitamin as it does not contain nitrogen. Today, it is classified as a non-vital amine.
Inositol is a phospholipid, organic component of the cell membranes of every living creature. In plants, this supplement can be obtained via phytic acid.
It is also found in wheat, brown rice, brewers yeast, cereal, and oat flakes, among many other sources. It abundant in many fruits and vegetables. It is also found in animal sources, particularly animal heart, liver, and brains.
The human body is capable of manufacturing inositol and true deficiencies are rare. However, there are times where supra-nutritional amounts of inositol can improve mood balance and contribute to health in other ways. In these instances, it may be beneficial to use Inositol capsules or powder as a dietary supplement.
Brain Health
Mood
Weight Loss- Supports brain & liver health
- Involved in mood regulation & nerve signalling
- Improves insulin sensitivity for PCOS, fertility & weight loss
What Is Inositol?
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One of the most important benefits of Inositol is that it helps nerve transmission.
It is involved in the production of certain neurotransmitters like serotonin and in the action of other neurotransmitters like acetylcholine.
Inositol functions alongside choline – another important phospholipid – to form the cell membranes that protect neurons and insulate nerves in the Central Nervous System.
These two nutrients combine together to produce lecithin which is needed to develop the protective sheath that covers all neuronal pathways in the brain.
By ensuring the brain has enough resources to build healthy cell membranes, users can improve signaling functions and synaptic transmissions between neurons. This can enhancer overall communication between different systems in the brain.
Certain forms of inositol also act as secondary messengers, triggering the release of calcium within cells. This is important for proper signaling at neuronal synapses.
Top Inositol Supplements
Inositol capsules may also be able to treat depression, mood swings, and other mental disorders (such as bipolar disorders). Inositol is thought to increase levels of Serotonin in the brain to enable mood stabilization. Research also indicates that people who suffer from mental illnesses tend to have low levels of this supplement in their systems.
Studies have demonstrated that this compound has a calming effect on the mind when administered in therapeutic dosages. It can prevent symptoms of anxiety, panic attacks, and obsessive-compulsive disorder.
In one study, depressed patients given 12 g of Inositol powder every day for four weeks shows significant improvements in mood compared to the control group that were given a placebo.
Health Benefits of Inositol Tablets
Inositol has also been shown to lower the levels of cholesterol within the blood and arteries. It is a lipotropic agent that helps to emulsify and break down fats. Inositol capsules can improve the transportation of fats through the body and improve lipid metabolism to a degree, which may support weight loss. This also prevents the build-up of fats in the arteries and organs, such as the liver.
By breaking down fats into small particles that can be removed easily, this supplement can be used to lower levels of harmful cholesterol. It has also been shown to raise levels of good HDL cholesterol.
Inositol is also thought to help promote strong and healthy hair, skin and nails. Taking this supplement in combination with a high quality B complex vitamin and a source of choline will improve the results.
There have also been studies showing it can improve symptoms of polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) and fertility in women.
There have even been premilinary studies show it exhibits anti-cancer effects. Taking Inositol capsules with Phytic acid is believed to enhance the effectiveness.
- Supports brain and liver health
- Involved in mood regulation and nerve signalling
- Used for PCOS, fertility and weight loss
Types of Inositol Capsules:
Inositol capsules come in a number of different dosages sizes. Active doses from between 200 mg up to 1000 mg can be found in most nutritional supplement stores.
For mood enhancement and therapeutic use in the treatment of depression, doctors will generally recommend between 1,000 to 2,000 mg per day.
However, some trials have seen better results with much higher dosage quantities. It is best to consult with your doctor to determine how much you should use for best results and to avoid side effects.
While oral capsule forms of Inositol are readily available online, many prefer to buy it in bulk powder form. This makes it easier for administering larger dosages and the cost tends to be significantly cheaper.
The powder can be mixed into a smoothie or milk to be administered. Inositol powder has a sweet taste and is generally well tolerated as an oral supplement. Few side effects are associated with Inositol use, though some individuals report gastrointestinal discomfort when first using this product.
Inositol Supplement Stacks:
In order to improve the effectiveness of Inositol, many people use it in a supplement stack with Choline. These two ingredients exist in nature together in the form of lecithin. Choline is a closely related compound that works together with Inositol to emulsify fats in the body and to form cell membranes.
Users who take inositol with choline frequently state that they experience greater benefits than when taking either of these compounds on their own. Searching for Choline and Inositol capsules can result in better mood control, regulation of cholesterol levels, and improved brain cell health.
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- Tsui MM, York JD. Roles of inositol phosphates and inositol pyrophosphates in development, cell signaling and nuclear processes. Adv Enzyme Regul. 2010
- Communi D, Vanweyenberg V, Erneux C. Molecular study and regulation of D-myo-inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate 3-kinase. Cell Signal. 1995
- Larner J. D-chiro-inositol in insulin action and insulin resistance-old-fashioned biochemistry still at work. IUBMB Life. 2001
