Inositol is a naturally occurring carbohydrate that the body can produce from glucose. It is sometimes classified as a B-vitamin, though it is technically not a vitamin since the body can synthesise it. Inositol is found in many foods, including fruits, beans, grains, and nuts, and is present in relatively high concentrations in brain tissue.
What is myo-inositol?
Inositol exists in nine different forms (isomers). Myo-inositol is the most abundant form found naturally in the body and in food. It is the form most commonly used in dietary supplements and the one with the largest body of research. When a supplement label says "inositol" without further specification, it almost always means myo-inositol.
What is D-chiro-inositol?
D-chiro-inositol is a second naturally occurring form of inositol. It is present in smaller amounts in the body and is produced from myo-inositol via an enzyme called epimerase. Some research has looked at the ratio of myo-inositol to D-chiro-inositol, and some supplements provide both in a fixed ratio (typically 40:1) to mimic the natural physiological ratio found in blood.
How does inositol function in the body?
Myo-inositol is a component of cell membranes, where it acts as a building block for phosphoinositides — lipids involved in signal transduction pathways. It plays a role in how cells respond to certain hormones and neurotransmitters, including insulin and serotonin. This broad involvement in cellular signalling is the reason it has been studied across a range of conditions.
How is it taken?
Myo-inositol is available in both powder and capsule form. Doses in research studies typically range from 2 g to 4 g per day, taken with meals. The powder form allows more flexibility in dosing. Capsules are more convenient for travel and consistent daily use.
Is it safe?
Myo-inositol has an excellent safety profile. It is generally well tolerated at typical supplement doses. At higher doses (4 g/day and above), some people experience mild gastrointestinal effects such as nausea or loose stools. It should not replace any prescribed medication without consulting a doctor.
Available product
Supplements & More carries Amazing Formulas Myo-Inositol 2000 mg (capsules). Imported from the United States, delivered across Lebanon with cash on delivery.