Updated: 10/3/23
Inositol powder may sound a bit unfamiliar, but if you have ever taken a multivitamin, then you have most likely ingested this substance already. More commonly called vitamin B8, inositol is a type of sugar that is necessary for several important functions in the body. Possibly its most important function is influencing insulin distribution, which is an essential hormone for blood sugar control. Studies state that it may be useful for addressing a variety of diseases and disorders, in addition to supporting important functions in the body. It is important to note, however, that there is no definitive medical evidence that proves inositol can cure or prevent any disease or disorder. You should check with a doctor before taking any supplements.
What is Inositol (Vitamin B8)?
So what exactly is inositol? Although it is often called a vitamin, inositol is not actually a vitamin. It is a type of sugar that your body uses to regulate the insulin response. Inositol also affects several hormones associated with mood and cognition. It is present in animal tissues, mostly in the heart and the brain. It naturally contributes to muscle and nerve function and helps the liver process fats. Inositol is a water-soluble vitamin that plays a crucial role in our body’s overall health and wellbeing.
What Foods Have Inositol?
Inositol is a naturally occurring substance in different types of food including:
- Whole grains
- Melons
- Citrus fruits
- Wheat germ
- Nuts
- Beans
- Bananas
Benefits of Inositol Powder
Inositol powder is used to help with a variety of quite important bodily functions. Its natural roles in the body include providing cellular structure, helping maintain insulin production and facilitating chemical messages in the brain. As a supplement, these properties may also help with various aspects of health such as:
- Mental health
- Sleep
- Insulin resistance
- Reproductive health
Mental Health
Studies state that it may be able to help benefit mental health and address panic disorders including anxiety, depression and obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). It may play a role in producing the hormones serotonin and dopamine. Dopamine is the chemical that stimulates the reward center of your brain, to make you feel happy and serotonin is another “feel-good” chemical that aids in social interaction and feelings of contentment. Some studies show that low myo-inositol concentrations in the blood may indicate a higher risk for depression. In a study of people with panic disorders, Inositol’s use significantly reduced the number and intensity of panic attacks. Overall, Inositol is an excellent supplement for supporting cognitive function.
Sleep
Its relationship with serotonin may also help promote better quality sleep and address symptoms related to insomnia. Serotonin naturally encourages calm and peaceful sensations that can help induce sleep. Studies point out that an alarming amount of adults experience sleep deprivation or low quality sleep, which may increase the risk for further health issues, including chronic fatigue and trouble with memory and concentration. Inositol may be a helpful tool for combatting this. However, there are no studies stating that inositol can definitely cure any mental health condition.
Liver Health
Inositol may help support liver health. It plays a role in the transportation of fats from the liver, which can help prevent the accumulation of fatty liver. Additionally, Inositol may improve liver function in people with liver disease.
Insulin Resistance
It is part of the membranes of all cells and the highest levels are found in the brain and the heart. Inositol naturally helps support heart health because of its role on blood sugar and insulin regulation. Insulin resistance is how the body responds to insulin and contributes to metabolic syndrome, a group of conditions that can increase the risk for heart disease, stroke and type 2 diabetes. The body uses inositol to produce molecules that support insulin regulation, so it may benefit insulin sensitivity.
Helps Curb Sugar Cravings
Inositol can help regulate insulin levels, improving the body’s response to sugar and promoting a more balanced appetite. This supplemental powder is perfect for those who struggle with sugar addiction or weight issues.
Aids in Weight Loss
Obesity is a leading cause of various health problems such as hypertension, cardiovascular diseases, and diabetes. Inositol powder can help with weight loss. In a study published in the Journal of International Medical Research, it was found that supplementing it in combination with a calorie-restricted diet significantly improved weight loss compared to a calorie-restricted diet alone.
Reproductive Health
Its effect on insulin regulation may also have an effect on reproductive health, specifically with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), a hormonal imbalance that can occur in the ovaries, disrupting the body’s ability to produce and release eggs. It can cause irregular periods, cysts and infertility. Studies state that patients with PCOS may often have high insulin levels.
Promotes Healthy Hair and Skin
It’s benefits aren’t limited to our health; the supplement can help improve the appearance of hair and skin. Inositol powder helps to improve the elasticity of the skin, which decreases with age. It also reduces the occurrence of acne spots and promotes healthy hair growth. It promotes stronger, shinier hair, and healthy skin.
Inositol Powder for Sleep
In addition to reducing anxiety, inositol also improves sleep quality by reducing sleep latency. This refers to the amount of time it takes for a person to fall asleep after lying in bed. Inositol reduces this time by calming down the nervous system, thus promoting a more relaxed state. Once asleep, the quality of sleep improves as well, in particular, deep sleep, which is vital for repairing and renewing the body.
How to Take Inositol Powder
Inositol supplements may help address a variety of symptoms related to a variety of conditions. The supplements aim to mimic its natural qualities to potentially benefit health. However, it is important to consult a doctor before trying it as a dietary supplement. The recommended serving size for inositol (vitamin B8) powder is 600 mg per day, or following a doctor’s instructions.
What are the Side Effects of Inositol?
Inositol powder is considered a safe supplement to take. However, before you should consult with your doctor before you take it because it can cause side effects in some cases, including:
Pregnancy & Breastfeeding Warnings
Unless a doctor directly gives instructions to do so, avoid inositol supplements during pregnancy and breastfeeding. There is not enough research on its safety or what complications it may cause.
Where Can I Buy Inositol Powder?
You can purchase inositol powder at BulkSupplements.com. The company is an industry-leading manufacturer and distributor for pure dietary supplements. BulkSupplements.com is not just a consumer brand. It also supplies pure ingredients to other brands that distribute other food and supplement products. All products at BulkSupplements.com are manufactured and tested according to current and proper manufacturing practices.
Bottom Line
Inositol is a very common supplement in multivitamins. It is also present in all animal tissues, though the highest concentrations are in the heart and brain. You may know it by its more familiar name, vitamin B8, and you’ve most likely taken it before if you’ve ever taken multivitamin supplements. But you can also get it from many different foods such as fruits, vegetables and fiber-rich foods.
Inositol is a natural part of the outer membranes of our cells, which is why it is so common in our bodies and so essential to animal tissues. It is also essential for cellular structure and transmitting chemical messages in the brain. Inositol plays a strong role in helping the liver process fats, contributes to healthy muscle cell function and supports nerve cell transmission. It also participates in the natural transportation of serotonin and dopamine in the brain, two major neurotransmitters associated with mood and sleep. It is an important component in the body for heart and reproductive health and mood.
However, even though it may help improve health, there are no scientific studies that definitively support its role to treat or prevent any disease, illness or health condition. It is not an adequate medical treatment and make sure to consult a doctor before trying inositol powder or any other dietary supplement.
**These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.