Myo-Inositol for PCOS

hormonal health period problems Mar 29, 2022

If you suffer from PCOS, you know just how dreadful and nagging common symptoms can be. If you don’t know if you have PCOS or you aren’t even sure what it is, read our previous blog describing it here: PCOS Explained.

PCOS is complicated. Given the various presentations and types, how you treat and support PCOS is based on the root cause and unique imbalances. Often, PCOS can be managed with lifestyle and diet changes, but sometimes additional, targeted support is needed.

Myo-inositol is one such support nutrient for particular imbalances with PCOS.

 

Health Benefits of Myo-Inositol

Myo-inositol is a member of the inositol family. Inositols consist of nine vitamin-like nutrients and myo-inositol is the most available form. Inositols are made in the body, but are also found in foods, such as meats, eggs, bananas, peaches, grains, and beans/legumes.

Balanced levels of myo-inositol aren't just ideal, but necessary. Low amounts of myo-inositol in the body can result in infertility and hormonal imbalance, while excess amounts can lead to brain disorders. Alternatively, a healthy balance of myo-inositol regulates various bodily functions and processes, including:

  • Building cell membranes

  • Promoting hormone activation

  • Regulating energy use and stress response

  • Maintaining weight

  • Improving fertility and reproductive health

Clearly, myo-inositol is a vital nutrient for women’s health, but more specifically, for PCOS management! 

 

How Myo-Inositol Improves PCOS

In PCOS, a disconnect or malfunction in the production and use of inositols occur. Supplementing with myo-inositol can help the body regulate these processes by reducing insulin resistance and improving testosterone levels. In one study, a 3 month trial use of myo-inositol resulted in lowered plasma LH, testosterone, free testosterone, and insulin in the body. Subsequently, PCOS symptoms improved. In another 6 month study, women with PCOS were administered 2g of myo-inotsitol with folic acid. This treatment helped to restore ovarian activity which improved fertility in the majority of these subjects.

Myo-inositol addresses many of the root cause of PCOS and helps regulate these imbalances in the body.

 

How to Use Myo-Inositol

You can increase your intake of inositols, including myo-inositol, through diet and supplements. 

  1. Myo-Inositol Rich Diet- Increase your consumption of myo-inositol foods by incorporating 1-2 of these foods at each meal:

    • Meats

    • Eggs

    • Fresh fruits: bananas, oranges, peaches

    • Organic, sprouted grains

    • Soaked beans and legumes 

    • Raw nuts and seeds

  2. Myo-Inositol Supplementation- Myo-inositol supplements come in powder and capsule form. Effective support for PCOS frequently includes the use of both myo-inositol and folate. Talk to your doctor about the best dose for you!

 

In my professional opinion, myo-inositol can be an effective, natural, and safe adjunctive support for PCOS. However it’s always important to talk to your doctor before starting any supplement or attempting to reverse any condition.

 

And although it is a frequent recommendation I make for my clients who suffer from PCOS symptoms, it isn’t a magic pill that reverses PCOS on it’s own. I always recommend a comprehensive treatment plan including exercise, diet, and lifestyle changes as well.

I hope this was helpful and that you now have another tool to support you along your hormone balancing journey!

-Dr. Leah Gordon

 

 

 

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