7 Science-Backed Benefits of Myo-Inositol for Women with PCOS
Did you know that women with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) are often insulin resistant? Their bodies make insulin but cannot use it effectively. This article will enlighten you on the best natural sugar; Myo inositol (also called vitamin B8), which is effective to improve insulin sensitivity in women with this metabolic disorder. So don’t be distracted and learn the proven benefits of Myo-Inositol for women with PCOS by thoroughly reading this blog post.
PCOS & Its Prevalence Globally
Polycystic ovary syndrome is a hormonal disorder that affects millions of women worldwide. It is characterized by the growth of small cysts on the ovaries, which can disrupt the normal functioning of the female reproductive system.
Globally, it affects about 5-18% of women of reproductive age. Moreover, around 50 % of women do not know that they are suffering from this syndrome or they have a delayed diagnosis.
PCOS is a complex condition that can lead to a range of symptoms, including irregular menstrual cycles, weight gain, acne, and fertility issues. Women with PCOS often struggle to manage their symptoms, which can be frustrating and exhausting. Fortunately, there is a natural sugar present in different fruits and vegetables and also synthesized in our bodies that can help alleviate some of the symptoms of PCOS; Myo-Inositol.
What is Myo-Inositol?
Myo-inositol is a naturally occurring nutrient that belongs to the vitamin B complex family. It is a sugar-like compound that is found in a variety of foods, such as fruits, beans, grains, and nuts. Myo-inositol has been shown to have a wide range of health benefits, particularly for women's health.
What are the Benefits of Myo-Inositol?
Myo-inositol is a versatile and effective nutrient that has numerous benefits for overall health, particularly for women's health. One of the most well-known benefits of Myo-inositol is its ability to regulate insulin levels, which can be helpful for those with insulin resistance and type 2 diabetes. For women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), Myo-inositol has been found to improve fertility by promoting regular ovulation and restoring hormonal balance. To learn more about the specific benefits that Myo-inositol can provide for women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), keep reading.
1. Improves Insulin Sensitivity
Insulin resistance is a common problem in women with PCOS, which can lead to weight gain and an increased risk of developing type 2 diabetes. Myo-Inositol works by improving the signaling pathway of insulin and enhancing glucose uptake in the cells. This mechanism of action helps to reduce insulin resistance and improve insulin sensitivity in women with PCOS, ultimately reducing their risk of developing type 2 diabetes.
2. Helps Regulate Menstrual Cycles
One of the major symptoms of PCOS is irregular menstrual cycles. Myo-Inositol may regulate menstrual cycles and improve ovulation in women with PCOS.
It works by improving the function of the ovary and reducing the level of luteinizing hormone, which is typically elevated in women with PCOS. By regulating these hormones, Myo-Inositol helps to restore normal ovulatory function and promote regular menstrual cycles in women with PCOS. Additionally, Myo-Inositol has been found to improve egg quality and increase the chances of conception in women with PCOS.
3. Reduces Testosterone Levels
PCOS is a hormonal disorder that can cause a variety of symptoms, including acne, hair loss, and excessive hair growth. High levels of testosterone in women with PCOS can contribute to these symptoms and other health issues. Myo-Inositol works by improving insulin sensitivity and reducing the levels of luteinizing hormone, which can stimulate the ovaries to produce more testosterone. By regulating these hormones, Myo-Inositol helps to reduce the levels of testosterone in women with PCOS.
4. Reduces Inflammation
Inflammation is a natural response of the body's immune system to injury or infection, but chronic inflammation can lead to a variety of health issues, including insulin resistance, weight gain, and infertility. Myo-Inositol works by regulating the activity of certain proteins involved in the body's inflammatory response, such as nuclear factor kappa B (NF-kB) thereby reducing inflammation in women with PCOS.
5. May Prevent Acne & Hair Fall
PCOS causes high androgen levels in the body. Consequently, these elevated levels can cause a variety of symptoms, including acne, hair loss, and excessive hair growth. Myo-Inositol works by regulating the levels of androgens in the body and reducing insulin resistance. Doing so, it can help prevent acne and hair fall by reducing the overproduction of oil in the skin and hair follicles.
6. Reduces Anxiety and Depression
Women with PCOS are at a higher risk of developing anxiety and depression due to hormonal imbalances, insulin resistance, and other factors. Myo-Inositol works by regulating neurotransmitters in the brain, such as serotonin and dopamine, which play important roles in mood regulation.
7. Myo Inositol Improves Fertility in Women with PCOS
Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is a common hormonal disorder that causes irregular menstrual cycles, ovarian cysts, and other symptoms that can impact fertility. Women with PCOS often struggle with infertility, which can be challenging.
Myo-Inositol, a naturally occurring compound found in many foods, has been shown to improve fertility in women with PCOS. It works by improving insulin sensitivity, regulating hormones such as luteinizing hormone (LH) and follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), and improving ovulatory function. Doing so, it can help restore regular menstrual cycles and increase the chances of ovulation and conception.
Additionally, Myo-Inositol has been found to reduce oxidative stress and inflammation in the ovaries, which can contribute to fertility issues in women with PCOS. Studies have shown that Myo-Inositol supplementation can significantly improve ovulation rates, pregnancy rates, and live birth rates in women with PCOS who are undergoing fertility treatments.
References:
- https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5655679/
- https://www.thelancet.com/journals/lanepe/article/PIIS2666 7762(22)00220-4/fulltext
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/7416064/
- https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/inositol-benefits
- https://www.sciencedirect.com/topics/medicine-and-dentistry/inositol
- https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8227031/