Inositols Role in Managing PCOS: A Promising Approach
“ Inositols act as second messengers for insulin, and their deficiency contributes to the various features of PCOS. Correction of MI and DCI [Inositols], deficiency simultaneously, by using MDI therapy, may help in alleviating metabolic, menstrual/ovulatory, and cutaneous hyper androgenic features of PCOS.” - Kalra B, 2016
The Role of Inositol in Managing PCOS: A Promising Approach
Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is a complex hormonal disorder that affects many women worldwide. It’s often associated with symptoms such as irregular menstrual cycles, insulin resistance, and elevated levels of androgens like testosterone. One promising area of research for managing PCOS symptoms is the use of inositol supplements. Let’s delve into how inositol can play a beneficial role in alleviating some of the challenges associated with PCOS.
Understanding Inositol
Inositol is a type of sugar that plays a crucial role in cellular processes and hormone signaling. It comes in different forms, with Myo-inositol and D-chiro-inositol being the most relevant for health, especially in the context of PCOS. Research suggests that women with PCOS often have impaired inositol metabolism, which can contribute to the symptoms of the syndrome.
Benefits of Inositol for PCOS
Incorporating inositol supplements can be an effective adjunct to conventional treatments for PCOS, potentially leading to several improvements:
- Insulin Sensitivity and Levels: Inositol has been shown to significantly reduce insulin levels and improve insulin sensitivity. This is crucial because insulin resistance is a common issue in women with PCOS, leading to higher insulin levels that can exacerbate symptoms.
- Ovarian Function and Menstrual Cycle Regularity: Studies have demonstrated that inositol can improve ovarian function and help regulate the menstrual cycle. It has been effective in treating conditions such as amenorrhea (absence of menstruation) and oligomenorrhea (infrequent menstruation), common in women with PCOS.
- Reduction in Androgen Levels: Inositol supplementation has been associated with significant reductions in free testosterone levels. High levels of androgens can lead to symptoms like acne, hirsutism (excessive hair growth), and other androgen-related issues.
- Weight Loss: Several studies have indicated that inositol can contribute to significant weight loss, which is beneficial since weight management can help mitigate many PCOS symptoms.
- Improvement in Other Health Markers: Inositol has been linked to improved blood lipid profiles, including better cholesterol and triglyceride levels, and lower blood pressure, enhancing overall cardiovascular health.
A Complicated Syndrome
PCOS is a multifaceted condition, and managing it often requires a period of dedicated experimentation and monitoring. If you’ve been struggling with diets and stress for an extended period, starting a new regimen might feel overwhelming.
However, inositol supplementation could offer a relatively low-stress addition to your management plan.
Conclusion
Inositol, available in Myo- and D-chiro forms, offers a promising natural approach to managing PCOS. It can improve insulin sensitivity, regulate menstrual cycles, reduce androgen levels, aid in weight loss, and improve overall health markers.
While it’s not a cure-all, it can be a valuable tool in a comprehensive PCOS management strategy.
For those interested in trying inositol, you can find quality inositol supplements, like the one available at MyProtein. Remember, it’s crucial to consult with your healthcare provider before starting any new supplement to ensure it’s appropriate for your specific situation.
For dosage recommendations see my PCOS supplement guide here
References:
- Genazzani et al. (2008)
- Costantino et al. (2009)
- Gerli et al. (2003)
- Gerli et al. (2007)
- Pundir et al. meta analysis (2018)
Much love,
Ellz
Elliot Harris
Sport Scientist and Nutrition Scientist
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