There are a total of 9 different molecular forms of inositol; however only one, myoinositol, is biologically active. When speaking of nutrients, myoinositol is known as inositol. Even though inositol is not a regular vitamin B, the substance is often mentioned in international literature along with the B-vitamins, as a synergetic substance in the organ chemistry of these.
Inositol plays an important role in the phospholipids that are part of the surface structure of the cells and the membranes where they participate in the exchange of impulses, the absorption mechanisms and the homeostatic regulations. It is important to the nervous system on which it has a calming effect. Also the rhythmic movements of the intestines which carry along the food need a sufficient amount of inositol.
Diabetics discharge large amounts of inositol, and at the same time their tissue concentrations are very low, especially in the liver- and nerve tissue. Considering the normal functions of inositol, it has been obvious to connect the diabetic nerve degeneration with an inositol deficiency. Inositol supplements given to diabetics have actually also proved to be valuable in the attempt to postpone the ordinary secondary symptoms that accompany advanced diabetes.
Since inositol is important when oxygen forms a compound with hemoglobin, an inositol supplement may be of potential great use for competitive athletes and other people who are under great physical stress where an increased oxygen supply to the tissue is of utmost importance. Moreover, inositol is becoming a popular medicine against insomnia; efficient, comfortable and without any side effects. It is an important part of the body's sperm production. A deficiency can destroy the quality of the sperm.
Richest natural sources
Beans, grains, nuts and fruits. Formed in the body during the transformation of the amino acid methionine and produced from glucose by means of a co-enzyme activity from vitamin B3. Inositol is also made from intestinal bacteria, and this production substantially contributes to the deposits in the body. Phytin is inositol hexaphosphate which, during malting, cleaves off 6 phosphorus atoms and releases inositol.
If you drink a lot of coffee or consume large amounts of products that contain caffeine, the inositol in the body is destroyed.
RDA: None.
Dosage
If you eat well, you will get about 1 g. a day through your diet; general supplement: 0.5 g. a day.
Orthomolecular treatment: up to 3 g. a day.
Doses of 12 - 18 g. a day is used for conditions like depression and anxiety- and panic attacks.
Supplements should be taken in connection with meals. The absorption of inositol is generally large.
Side effects
Inositol is not toxic, anf there are no reports of negative reactions to even very large doses. Large daily doses might cause loose stools.
Also see "Lecithin - Phosphatidyl choline".
