Inositol, although often referred to as vitamin B8, is not a vitamin but rather a type of sugar with several important functions. It plays a structural role in your body as a major component of cell membranes and influences the action of insulin, a hormone essential for blood sugar control. Additionally, it affects chemical messengers in your brain, such as serotonin and dopamine¹.
Here are some key points about inositol:
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Mental Health Benefits: Inositol may help balance important brain chemicals, including those believed to affect mood. Some studies suggest that it could be an alternative treatment for mental health conditions, with fewer side effects than traditional medications¹.
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Panic Disorder: Research indicates that inositol supplements may be helpful for treating panic disorder, a severe form of anxiety. Individuals taking inositol experienced fewer and less severe panic attacks¹.
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Sources: Inositol naturally occurs in foods such as fruits, beans, grains, and nuts. Your body can also produce inositol from the carbohydrates you eat¹.
However, there are some considerations:
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Side Effects: Inositol supplements might cause diarrhea, gas, and nausea in some people. When taken by mouth, it’s generally safe for most adults when used for up to 10 weeks².
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Long-Term Use: It’s unclear whether inositol supplements are safe for long-term use. Most studies have examined inositol supplementation for a year or less. If you plan to take it long term, consult with a healthcare professional¹⁵.
Remember that individual responses to supplements can vary, so it’s essential to discuss any long-term use with your doctor. .
Source: Conversation with Bing, 10/04/2024
(1) Inositol: Benefits, Side Effects and Dosage - Healthline. Inositol: Benefits, Side Effects and Dosage.
(2) INOSITOL - Uses, Side Effects, and More - WebMD. INOSITOL: Overview, Uses, Side Effects, Precautions, Interactions, Dosing and Reviews.
(3) Inositol: Uses, benefits, side effects, and more - Medical News Today. Inositol: Uses, benefits, side effects, and more.
(4) Inositol benefits, dosage, and side effects - Examine. Inositol benefits, dosage, and side effects.
(5) Inositol: Benefits, Side Effects, Dosage, Interactions - Verywell Mind. Inositol: Benefits, Side Effects, Dosage, Interactions.
(6) en.wikipedia.org. Inositol - Wikipedia.