Inositol is water soluble and a member of the B complex group, and a lipotopic. It metabolizes fat and cholesterol. Inositol is an aid in redistribution of body fat. It combines with choline to form lecithin.
Inositol is often referred to as vitamin B8, but it is not actually a vitamin. It’s a type of sugar that influences the insulin response and several hormones associated with mood and cognition. Inositol also has antioxidant properties that fight the damaging effects of free radicals in the brain, circulatory system, and other body tissues.
D-chiro-inositol, inositol hexaphosphate (often referred to as “IP6”) and the compound myo-inositol are the most widely used inositol supplements. They are generally considered safe if taken appropriately.
Daily dietary value have not been established, but the average healthy adult gets approximately 1g a day. Like choline it has been found to be important in nourishing brain cells.
Function of Inositol
Helps lower cholesterol levels. Promotes healthy hair and is an aid in preventing hair loss and helps preventing eczema. Inositol can produce a calming effect.
Foods rich in inositol vitamin B8
Liver, brewer’s yeast, dried lima beans, beef brain and heart. Cantaloupe,grapefruit, raisins, wheat germ, unrefined molasses, peanuts, cabbage.
It is recommended to take inositol with choline and your other B vitamins. If you are a heavy coffee drinker you probably need supplemental inositol.
If you take lecithin, it is advised to take supplement of chelated calcium to keep your phosphorus and calcium in balance, as choline and inositol seem to raise phosphorus levels. A good way to maximize the effectiveness of vitamin E is to take enough inositol and choline.
In supplements:
As with choline, 6 soy based lecithin capsules contain approximately 244 mg each of inositol and choline. Available in lecithin powders that mix well with liquid. Most B complex supplements contain approximately 100mg. of choline and inositol.
Signs of deficiency
Eczema
Signs of excess
No known toxic effects.
Recommended daily dosage
Daily dietary value have not been established, but the average healthy adult gets approximately 1g a day. Daily doses most often used are 250-500mg.
Water, sulfa drugs, estrogen, food processing, alcohol and coffee are enemies of inositol.
To buy
Further reading
Healthline
Healthline
E Medicine health
Very well mind
References
- New Vitamin Bible Earl L. Mindell, Hachette Book Group, 2011
- Very well mind
