Inositol

Inositol functions very closely with another B-complex vitamin, choline. Because it is not essential in the human diet, it cannot be considered a vitamin. It is a fundamental ingredient of cell membranes and is necessary for proper nerve, brain, and muscle function. Inositol is lipotropic, and works in conjunction with folacin, Vitamins B-6 and B-12, choline, betaine and methionine to prevent the accumulation of fats in the liver. It exists as the fiber component phytic acid, which has been investigated for its anti-cancer properties. Inositol is primarily used in the treatment of liver problems, depression, panic disorder, and diabetes. Studies of inositol as a treatment for liver disorders are forthcoming.

Inositol compounds have demonstrated stunning qualities in the prevention and treatment of cancer. Inositol can increase the differentiation and normalization of cancer cells, according to recent research. The abundance of inositol hexaphosphate in fiber may explain in part why high-fiber diets are associated with a lower incidence of certain cancers.1

Neurotransmitters such as serotonin and acetylcholine in the brain depend on inositol to function properly. Low levels of this nutrient may result in depression. Boosting inositol levels appears to be a promising treatment for depressive conditions. Its effect on depression led to a study designed to test its effectiveness against panic disorder. The 1995 study reported that inositol can reduce the frequency and severity of panic attacks in patients with panic disorders.2

Diabetic neuropathy is a nerve disease caused by diabetes. The loss of inositol from the nerve cell is a major cause of the decreased nerve function. Researchers found in 1983 that inositol supplements may improve nerve conduction velocities in diabetics. This condition may be treated partially, though not exclusively, by inositol supplements.3

1 Shamsuddin AM, Journal of Nutrition, 1995;125 (suppl):725S-32S.

2 Benjamin J, et al., Double-blind, placebo-controlled, crossover trial of inositol treatment for panic disorder. Am J Psychiatry 152, 1084-1086, 1995, as cited in Podell, R, Inositol found effective for depression and panic-anxiety, NFMÕs Nutritional Science News, 1996; 1:8, 18.

3 Gegerson G, Harb H, Helles A, and Christensen J, Oral supplementation of myoinositol: Effects of peripheral nerve function in human diabetics and on the concentration in plasma, erythrocytes, urine and muscle tissue in human diabetics and normals. Acta Neurol Scand 67, 164-171, 1983.

INOSITOL: SOURCES

• Beans, dried
• Calves' liver
• Cantaloupe
• Citrus fruit, except lemons
• Garbanzo beans (chickpeas)
• Lecithin granules
• Lentils
• Nuts
• Oats
• Pork
• Rice
• Veal
• Wheat germ
• Whole-grain products

Available as:

• Capsules: Take with meals or 1 to 1-1/2 hours after meals unless otherwise directed by your doctor.
• Available as inositol monophosphate.1

1 From Griffith HW, Vitamins, Minerals, and Supplements.

INOSITOL: PROVEN BENEFITS

• Plays a role similar to choline in helping move of fats out of liver.

What this supplement does:

• Inositol forms an important part of phospholipids, which are compounds manufactured in our bodies.1

1 From Griffith HW, Vitamins, Minerals, and Supplements.

INOSITOL: UNPROVED SPECULATED BENEFITS

• Protects against cardiovascular disease.
• Protects against peripheral neuritis associated with diabetes. (Some studies have shown promise for this use, but definitive, well-controlled studies have not been done.)
• Protects against hair loss.
• Helps maintain healthy hair.
• Functions as mild anti-anxiety agent.
• Helps control blood-cholesterol level.
• Promotes body's production of lecithin.
• Treats constipation with its stimulating effect on muscular action of alimentary canal.1

1 From Griffith HW, Vitamins, Minerals, and Supplements.

INOSITOL: SPECIAL CONSIDERATIONS

• Heavy drinkers of coffee, tea, cocoa and other caffeine-containing substances.
• Miscellaneous information:
• Caffeine in large quantities may create an inositol shortage.1

1 From Griffith HW, Vitamins, Minerals, and Supplements.

INOSITOL: DEFICIENCY SYMPTOMS

Symptoms develop only in some animals; none are known in humans.1

1 From Griffith HW, Vitamins, Minerals, and Supplements.

INOSITOL: UNPROVED SPECULATED SYMPTOMS

• Eczema
• Constipation
• Abnormalities of the eyes1

1 From Griffith HW, Vitamins, Minerals, and Supplements.

INOSITOL: LAB TESTS TO DETECT DEFICIENCY

None available, except for experimental purposes.1

1 From Griffith HW, Vitamins, Minerals, and Supplements.

INOSITOL: OPTIMAL LEVELS

Up to 100 mg.

INOSITOL: MINIMUM DOSAGE

No RDA has been established.

For liver conditions a therapeutic dose of 100-500mg daily is advised. For depression and panic disorder the recommended dosage is 12g daily. To supplement diabetic treatment, 1000-2000mg a day is recommended.

INOSITOL: WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS

Consult your doctor if you have:

• Diabetes with peripheral neuropathyÑpain, numbness, tingling, alternating feelings of cold and hot in feet and hands. Medical supervision is necessary.

Effect on lab tests:

• None known.

Storage:

• Store in cool, dry place away from direct light, but don't freeze.
• Store safely out of reach of children.
• Don't store in bathroom medicine cabinet. Heat and moisture may change action of supplement.1

1 From Griffith HW, Vitamins, Minerals, and Supplements.

INOSITOL: OVERDOSE/TOXICITY

Signs and symptoms:

• Unlikely to threaten life or cause significant symptoms.

What to do:

• For symptoms of overdosage: Discontinue supplement, and consult doctor.
• For accidental overdosage (such as child taking entire bottle): Call your nearest Poison Control Center.1

1 From Griffith HW, Vitamins, Minerals, and Supplements.

INOSITOL: ADVERSE REACTIONS OR SIDE EFFECTS

None known at this time.1

1 From Griffith HW, Vitamins, Minerals, and Supplements.

INOSITOL: INTERACTION WITH OTHER SUBSTANCES

Caffeine-containing foods and beverages may create inositol shortage in the body.1

1 From Griffith HW, Vitamins, Minerals, and Supplements.

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