General Description
Inositol is a nutrient that is loosely classified with the B-vitamin
complex. It is closely associated with the nutrient choline because
both are lipotropic agents that help the body emulsify fats. Inositol
is both produced from glucose in the body and obtained through diet.
Because inositol is produced and stored by the body and is available
in many foods, deficiencies are rare. Certain substances such as
coffee, however, can deplete stores of inositol and may assist in
potential inositol deficiencies, with symptoms such as eye problems,
hair loss, eczema, constipation, and elevated cholesterol levels.
Food sources
Inositol is found in citrus fruits, whole unprocessed grains,
brewer's yeast, wheat germ, egg yolk, green leafy vegetables,
and legumes.
Health applications
Functions and uses
Inositol primarily functions in maintaining cell membrane structure
and integrity in, for example, eye tissue and the intestine. It
helps liquify fats for transportation throughout the body. It may
also affect nerve transmission and, with choline, may help in brain
cell nutrition.
Diabetes
It has been reported that altered production of inositol may be
involved in diabetes,1 and that inositol is
important for many of the metabolic actions of insulin.2
Type II diabetes may be a result of unregulated insulin movement
due to the non-activation of inositol-containing phospholipid
messengers. Inositol-phospholipid analogues that mimic insulin's
actions may, in the future, lead to alternative therapies for
diabetes.3
Depression
Studies report low inositol levels in the cerebrospinal fluid
of depressive patients; and further, that administering 12 grams
of inositol daily may help alleviate symptoms of depression.4,5
Other studies show that inositol receptors may be involved in
the physiological pathways of depression.6 Similarly,
inositol may also help prevent panic attacks and agoraphobia.7
However, additional studies are needed to further elucidate
the efficacy of inositol for such conditions.
Dosage and Toxicity
There is no RDA for inositol. Inositol has no known toxicity,
even at intakes as high as 50 grams per day, which are much higher
than normal uses. There are no documented benefits from consumption
of large amounts of this nutrient. Most people do not need additional
inositol outside of dietary intake and normal bodily production.
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