Inositol
Silver· human dataAlso known as: Myo-inositol
A sugar alcohol with the best evidence in PCOS and insulin signalling.
Inositol (chiefly myo-inositol) is a sugar-alcohol involved in insulin signalling and neurotransmitter pathways. Its most promising evidence is in polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), where it may improve insulin sensitivity and ovulatory function.
There is weaker, preliminary evidence for anxiety and mood. It is generally well tolerated at the doses studied, with mild gut upset at high amounts. For PCOS specifically it is a reasonable evidence-based option worth discussing with a clinician.
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Written and reviewed by Mathew Beale, MSc Biotechnology, University of Reading.
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