Inositol powder is a supplement that is now receiving much media attention after a number of recently released studies have shown some surprising benefits.
This supplement is one of the B-Vitamins and is a carbohydrate, although it is not classified as a sugar. Instead, it is a sugar alcohol and an isomer of glucose.
There are nine different varieties of this compound that are located mainly within cell membranes. The principle function of Inositol is to help transport fats throughout the body and it is also a building block in the synthesis of several essential compounds.
Inositol works in conjunction with Choline to promote efficient firing and functioning of brain neurons. Using Inositol powder can provide nootropic benefits related to mood enhancement, memory, focus, and fluid intelligence.
Brain Health
Mood
Weight Loss- Supports brain & liver health
- Involved in mood regulation & nerve signalling
- Improves insulin sensitivity for PCOS, fertility & weight loss
Inositol Powder Effects:
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One of the most interesting ways in which this supplement works is by playing a role in neuro-genesis, or the development of brain cells and neurons.
Inositol is primarily able to supply the cells with phospholipids which are used to form neuronal membranes.
Maintaining the proper function and fluidity of these cell membranes is vital to many neurological functions such as nutrient supply, waste product removal and inter-neuron brain communication. The positive effects of Inositol are even more apparent in the presence of Choline.
Another mechanism of action for Inositol is the opening of calcium channels, or stores, within the brain. The importance of this operation cannot be overstated since these stores are critical for the release of a variety of neurotransmitters.
For example, Serotonin release is improved when using Inositol supplements. This neurotransmitter is involved in mood regulation as well as ensuring that proper sleep cycles are achieved.
Inositol also boost acetylcholine levels (especially when taken with a Choline source) which can lead to cognitive improvements in the areas of memory, logical processing, and concentration. Finally, this supplement is also valuable in gene expression, but the exact methods of this are not clear.
Top Inositol Supplements
Inositol Benefits:
The major benefit of Inositol powder is overall brain efficiency and enhanced mood. The support for nerve synthesis and development actually contributes to these benefits, along with heightened synaptic plasticity.
The neurotransmitters and chemicals created through these processes help to reduce anxiety and stress levels, potentially even addressing symptoms of depression. Using Inositol can also lead to better memory, focus, cognitive processing and greater levels of productivity.
Inositol is also incredibly effective at boosting healthy metabolic function when combined with Choline. Together, Choline and Inositol produce lecithin which is known to lower cholesterol levels. These substances are also fundamental in the breakdown of fats within the body. A Choline Inositol stack will reduce fat build up in and around the heart, arteries, and even the brain itself.
Not only is cholesterol reduced, but this supplement is also reported to help promote the growth of strong and healthy hair. It seems likely that these processes are related, although it is unclear exactly how.
Another positive benefit of Inositol is that it can help those with diabetes. It is thought to have a positive impact in the treatment of diabetic neuropathy or nerve pain which is one of the most frequent complications with the disease. Interestingly, most of the decrease in nerve function is actually the result of a loss of Inositol in the cells. Treating in this manner tends to reduce the pain significantly, making it much more manageable.
There is even some evidence to suggest that this supplement may be effective at helping to fight against cancer. This is especially true when it is combined with phytic acid. It is also able to control against excessive relaxation of the muscles in your intestines and alimentary canal, leading to a reduction in the action and pain of constipation.
- Supports brain and liver health
- Involved in mood regulation and nerve signalling
- Used for PCOS, fertility and weight loss
Inositol Dosage:
Many users seem to fluctuate anywhere between taking 500 mg and several grams per day of Inositol powder.
This may require a bit of trial and error. However, it is always recommended that you begin with a lower dose and then only increase as you become more familiar with the effects.
Make sure that you pay close attention to the effects on your body chemistry and only increase as appropriate.
The best way to take this, no matter your dose, is to split it into several different administrations throughout the day.
As mentioned previously, for the best results consider stacking it either with Choline Citrate or some other Choline supplement such as Citicoline or Alpha GPC.
Inositol Side Effects:
There are a few mild side effects which have been associated with the use of Inositol. Most people do not experience any side effects and Inositol is considered highly safe for human consumption.
However, some unpleasant responses have been reported such as headache, nausea, diarrhea, fatigue, nervousness, and GI issues. Anyone experiencing these (or other rare) side effects should reduce the dosage or desist from using for a few days.
Inositol Review:
Inositol powder is gaining in repute for nootropic purposes. User reviews of this supplement say that it can reduce anxiety, diminish signs of depression, improve memory and give you higher mental energy levels.
It is also a neuroprotective supplement that can improve the fluidity and health of brain cell membranes. This compound further promotes healthy cholesterol and fat levels throughout the body.
If you are interested in using Inositol, definitely consider stacking it with Choline to get the most out of your supplement investment.
- Greene DA. Sorbitol, myo-inositol and sodium-potassium ATPase in diabetic peripheral nerve. Drugs. 1986
- Unfer V, Porcaro G. Updates on the myo-inositol plus D-chiro-inositol combined therapy in polycystic ovary syndrome. Expert Rev Clin Pharmacol. 2014
- Burton A, Hu X, Saiardi A. Are inositol pyrophosphates signalling molecules? J Cell Physiol. 2009
- Hanley MR, Jackson TR, Vallejo M, Patterson SI, Thastrup O, Lightman S, Rogers J, Henderson G, Pini A. Neural function: metabolism and actions of inositol metabolites in mammalian brain. Philos Trans R Soc Lond B Biol Sci. 1988
- Ma K, Thomason LA, McLaurin J. scyllo-Inositol, preclinical, and clinical data for Alzheimer’s disease. Adv Pharmacol. 2012
- Shears SB, Weaver JD, Wang H. Structural insight into inositol pyrophosphate turnover. Adv Biol Regul. 2013
- Irvine RF, McNulty TJ, Schell MJ. Inositol 1,3,4,5-tetrakisphosphate as a second messenger–a special role in neurones? Chem Phys Lipids. 1999
- Dessì A, Fanos V. Myoinositol: a new marker of intrauterine growth restriction? J Obstet Gynaecol. 2013
4 Comments
what time of the day is best to take inositol?
and if I do ,can I stop my cholesterol medication?
Thank you
Hi Bernadette,
Thanks for your question! The Natural Medicines database does not list a specific time of day when Inositol should be used. Looking at research studies, most administer the dosage once per day, but there is not a particular time mentioned.
You should speak to your doctor to determine how to use any prescribed cholesterol medications as only someone familiar with your medical history can tell you whether to stop your cholesterol medication or not.
Is there any reaction with synthroid or cytomel? Should I space this out after taking them? I’m solely reliant on thyroid mess as I had thyroid cancer. Also have pcos and want to try this powder.
Do posters realize it is pointless to ask medical questions? Ask your doctor.