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Improving insulin resistance with Inositol



Inositol is a nutrient found in certain foods like beans, nuts, and grains, and it plays an important role in many biological processes, including glucose metabolism and nerve function. It is also known as vitamin B8, and is a part of the B-vitamin family. Inositol is naturally occurring and can also be taken as a supplement.


PCOS (polycystic ovary syndrome) and insulin resistance are two difficult health conditions that can have a significant impact on a woman’s health and quality of life. Fortunately, research shows that an inositol supplement may be able to offer some relief. Inositol is a nutrient found in certain foods like beans, nuts, and grains, and it has been studied extensively for its potential to help manage PCOS and insulin resistance.


For women with PCOS, inositol has been shown to improve the body’s ability to metabolize glucose, which can help reduce symptoms like irregular menstrual cycles and hirsutism.


In a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study published in the Journal of Clinical Endocrinology and Metabolism, it was found that women taking a daily dose of inositol experienced a decrease in testosterone levels, a decrease in total cholesterol, and an increase in insulin sensitivity.


These results suggest that inositol may be an effective treatment for PCOS. Inositol has also been studied for its potential to help manage insulin resistance. In a study published in the journal Diabetes Care, it was found that taking a daily dose of inositol resulted in improved insulin sensitivity and glucose tolerance.


This suggests that inositol may be beneficial for those with insulin resistance, and could potentially help reduce their risk of developing type 2 diabetes.


Overall, the research suggests that inositol may be an effective supplement for managing PCOS and insulin resistance.


You can buy inositol at most health food stores either as capsules or as a powder which is slightly sweet and can be added to hot drinks.











References:


1. Dokras, A., Clifton, S., Futterweit, W., Wild, R., & Dunaif, A. (2001). Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Trial of D-Chiro-Inositol in Patients with the Polycystic Ovary Syndrome. The Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism, 86(8), 4070-4076. https://doi.org/10.1210/jcem.86.8.7798


2. DeFronzo, R. A., Chen, K., Han, D. H., Fineman, M. S., & Triplitt, C. (2012). The Effect of Inositol on Insulin Resistance and Metabolic Profiles in Patients With Type 2 Diabetes. Diabetes Care, 35(9), 1884-1891. https://doi.org/10.2337/dc12-0251








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