Inositol benefits: PCOS, trying for a baby, pregnancy and wellbeing

Inositol is a molecule, a cyclic compound belonging to the polyol sugar family, sometimes referred to as "vitamin B8", although it is not strictly a vitamin. It exists in several forms, the most common of which is myo-inositol.

Inositol is widely present in the majority of the body's tissues, with a particularly high concentration in the brain, blood, adipose tissue, kidneys, lungs, and reproductive organs such as the ovaries and testes. There it plays a key role by intervening in numerous cell signalling pathways. In the body, inositol contributes to the transmission of hormonal signals and neurotransmitters [1].

It is also naturally present in many foods (beef heart, liver, pulses, vegetables, fruit, wholegrains). 

Research indicates that inositol, particularly myo-inositol, acts as a neuromodulator in the body. It is involved in serotonin and dopamine pathways, thereby influencing anxiety, depression and stress. It may therefore be beneficial for mood and wellbeing [2][3][4].

Several studies have shown that supplementation may help reduce generalised anxiety and obsessive-compulsive disorder, by improving mood and stress management. The evidence is encouraging and highlights the potential of myo-inositol and its benefits for psychological wellbeing.

At a physical level, inositol supports metabolic balance [5][6]. In particular, it may:

• Support the regulation of insulin sensitivity and improve the lipid profile.
• Help reduce triglycerides and support healthy cholesterol levels (HDL).
• It may also help with weight management [7].

By supporting cellular communication, myo-inositol plays a role in the health of cell membranes and in protection against oxidative stress. In doing so, the benefits of myo-inositol also include general support for bodily functions.

Furthermore, a study has shown that inositol dietary supplements can be considered a reliable option in the management of metabolic disorders in menopausal women [8]. Inositol may therefore be suitable as a menopause dietary supplement.

Myo-inositol and its benefits when trying for a baby are particularly noteworthy. Its effect on ovulation and egg quality is well documented. By supporting hormonal regularity and menstrual cycles, inositol facilitates natural conception and is particularly helpful for those on an IVF journey [9]. 

In men, one study suggests that myo-inositol treatment has a positive effect on certain sperm parameters, such as total and progressive sperm motility, as well as testosterone levels [10]. Inositol can be taken in addition to our male fertility supplement, which contains Coenzyme Q10 and NAC, also beneficial for sperm. 

As a result, inositol — and more specifically myo-inositol — is increasingly used when trying for a baby, particularly when looking to how to improve egg quality and optimise the chances of pregnancy.

Discover Myo-powder, our powder with 100% myo-inositol, at a dose of 4g per day. It can be taken in addition to our dietary supplement for getting pregnant Ovo+, which also helps support egg maturation. 

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) affects up to 10% of women of reproductive age, often associated with insulin resistance. The link inositol pcos is increasingly recognised, particularly in reducing the associated symptoms (hormonal, metabolic, etc.). 

Research shows that myo-inositol supplementation helps to:

• Reduction in free testosterone and improvement of related symptoms (acne, hirsutism, etc.) [11].
• Improving insulin sensitivity, leading to weight loss and a better metabolic profile [12].
• Restoring more regular ovulatory cycles [13].
• Improvement in ovulation rates [14].
• Supports oocyte and embryonic development [15][16].
• Increasing the chances of pregnancy [17].

Thus, myo-inositol and its benefits in polycystic ovary syndrome are well recognised and incorporated into many natural protocols. It is a PCOS supplement of choice, to be taken daily, particularly in cases of pcos-and-pregnancy. 

During pregnancy, physiological regulation of insulin-glucose metabolism is essential. Inositol is being studied for its preventive effects on gestational diabetes. 

Several clinical trials suggest that it may reduce the incidence of gestational diabetes in people at risk with a family history of the condition [18][19]. 

According to one analysis, the risk of developing gestational diabetes was reduced by 57% in those who took myo-inositol, compared to those who did not [20]. 

This beneficial effect has also been observed in pregnant women who have it and who suffer from PCOS [21]. 

Through its action on insulin, it helps to maintain stable blood sugar levels [22].

Inositol is available in several forms: powder, capsules, effervescent tablets.

• Myo inositol benefits: common doses range from 2 to 4 g per day, generally 4 g split into 2 doses per day. For its effect on mental wellbeing, doses are sometimes higher in studies, ranging from 6 to 12 g per day.
• Myo-inositol and D-chiro-inositol ratio: certain combined formulations (40:1 ratio) are preferred for optimal balance. 

Powder is generally more economical and allows you to adjust the dose precisely. To reach 4 g in capsule form, you would need to take a large number of capsules. For those trying for a baby, specific protocols recommend combining it with vitamin B9, the pregnancy vitamin essential.

Inositol is generally well tolerated. At high doses (above 12 g/day), some people may experience gastrointestinal discomfort: bloating, nausea, flatulence, or transient diarrhoea. There is no known long-term toxicity [23].

In the context of studies, pregnant women have taken up to 4 grams of inositol per day without adverse effects [24].

However, do not hesitate to consult a healthcare professional before starting to take inositol-based food supplements.

Inositol benefits in summary: mental health support, improved metabolism, hormonal regulation, optimised fertility… Myo-inositol and its benefits appear particularly promising and are widely documented. Versatile, safe and well tolerated, it represents an interesting natural option for a women's food supplement, provided the dosages are respected and advice is sought from a healthcare professional. It is also advisable to consume foods that are rich in it.