Inositol, a natural nutrient found in whole grains, beans, nuts, and fruits, can work wonders for your health and well-being.* Keep reading to learn all about inositol and explore its different forms, how it benefits your body, and how to choose the best inositol supplement for you.*
Are there different types of inositol?
There are nine different forms of inositol, but two are particularly beneficial for health: myo-inositol and D-chiro-inositol. Your body naturally makes both of these forms, and research has found that the natural ratio within most of your tissues is 40:1. That’s 40 parts myo-inositol to one part D-chiro-inositol.
How does inositol work?
Inositol plays a crucial role in helping your body use insulin.* Insulin is the hormone responsible for allowing glucose (sugar) in your blood into your cells so they can use it for energy.
Think of insulin as a key – it unlocks the door of your cells. But, it takes more than just a key to open a door. Something has to turn the doorknob or push open the door. So, as insulin turns the key, it prompts the release of inositol, which tells your body it’s time to push the door open and let glucose inside. If you don’t have enough inositol, the door may get stuck or have trouble opening the whole way. When this happens, glucose stays in your bloodstream, and your body keeps making more insulin to try to bust down the door.
What are the health benefits of inositol?*
1. Hormonal health*:
Because inositol plays such a vital role in insulin signaling, it helps promote healthy insulin sensitivity and insulin levels.* Healthy insulin levels also contribute to healthy levels of other hormones, including androgens like testosterone.*
2. Menstrual regularity and healthy ovarian function*:
Research suggests that inositol can promote regular menstrual cycles and healthy ovulation, both essential for reproductive health.*
3. Metabolic health*:
Metabolic health encompasses healthy insulin and blood sugar levels, but also healthy lipid levels and other important health markers. Healthy lipid (blood fat) levels are crucial for a healthy heart, and studies show that inositol can help achieve this goal.*
4. Female fertility*:
If you’re thinking about starting a family, inositol may be beneficial on your path to motherhood.* Studies have shown that inositol can support healthy egg and embryo quality, key factors for female fertility, and strong predictors of a healthy pregnancy.*
5. Mental health*:
Inositol acts as a secondary messenger for serotonin and dopamine—chemicals vital for maintaining a positive mood.* Recommended doses of inositol for mental health vary, so check in with your healthcare provider if you’re interested in taking inositol to support mental health.*
How do you choose the best inositol supplement?
Although inositol is present in certain foods and your body makes some inositol naturally, many choose to take an inositol supplement to help them manage their health and wellness.* But keep in mind, not all inositol supplements are created equal.
Here’s what to look for in an inositol supplement:
- Pure, premium ingredients: Choose an inositol supplement that’s 100% pure myo- and D-chiro-inositol – that means no additives or fillers.
- The right ratio: Look for an inositol supplement that provides myo- and D-chiro-inositol in the body’s naturally occurring 40:1 ratio.
- Independently tested and certified: Third-party testing and certification is your best guarantee that your inositol supplement contains everything it should and nothing it shouldn’t. Look for an inositol supplement that’s tested and certified by a trustworthy organization, like NSF® International or USP.
As you search for the best inositol supplement, look no further than Ovasitol. Available in a recyclable canister with a scoop or convenient, single-serving packets, Ovasitol is a 100% pure inositol product. It provides 2,000 mg of myo-inositol and 50 mg of D-chiro-inositol per serving, mimicking the body’s naturally occurring 40:1 ratio. And, it’s the only 40:1 inositol supplement that’s tested and certified by NSF International, so you know exactly what you’re getting. But as always, be sure to check in with your healthcare provider before adding any new supplement to your routine to make sure it’s right for you.
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