Inositol
Benefits of Inositol
- Metabolism
- Cell signalling
- Form: Myo-Inositol
- Food source: Beans, wholegrains, nuts, and citrus fruit such as oranges and grapefruit.
What is Inositol?
Inositol (or Myo-Inositol) is a type of sugar that's used throughout our body in cell membranes and cell signalling. The body makes it naturally, largely in the kidneys. It is highly concentrated in the brain, where it is involved in the signalling of neurotransmitters and hormones. You might hear it called Vitamin B8, even though it is not strictly a vitamin.
What does the research say about Inositol?
Inositol is involved in how insulin works. Insulin is the central hormone in blood sugar control. Inositols, including the related form D-chiro-inositol, have been studied for their role in insulin action. A trial combining inositol with alpha lipoic acid looked at metabolic markers including body fat, cholesterol and blood pressure. A one-year study of myo-inositol in postmenopausal women also measured a range of metabolic parameters.
You may be interested in reading 'Best foods for Type 2 diabetes' and 'Signs of high and low blood sugar'.
Why it's in GlucoBalance®
Enhances insulin sensitivity: Myo-inositol is a precursor to inositol phosphoglycans (IPGs), which act as second messengers in insulin signalling.1
Reduces insulin resistance: Myo-inositol promotes PI3K/Akt pathway activation, essential for glucose uptake in muscle and adipose tissue.2
Why it's in UltraEnergy
Inositol functions as a key component of cell membrane phospholipids and serves as a precursor for inositol phosphates, which act as secondary messengers in intracellular signal transduction pathways. These pathways regulate a range of physiological processes, including insulin signalling and neurotransmitter activity. In particular, inositol modulates the sensitivity and function of serotonin and dopamine receptors, influencing mood, stress response and emotional resilience. By enhancing neurotransmitter signalling and supporting cellular communication, inositol may help alleviate stress-induced fatigue and promote sustained mental and metabolic energy, especially in individuals with mood or metabolic imbalances.3
Why it's in Pregnancy Multinutrient
Inositol, particularly myo-inositol, has insulin-sensitising effects and may reduce the risk of gestational diabetes when supplemented during pregnancy. Some studies have shown that myo-inositol supplementation decreases gestational diabetes incidence, though more extensive research is needed to confirm these findings.4
Why it's in Men's ProMulti
Inositol is a sugar alcohol that plays an essential role in cell membrane function and insulin signalling. It has benefits for men, especially in regulating blood sugar levels and improving insulin sensitivity. Inositol has been shown to help reduce anxiety and depression symptoms, contributing to improved mental health and emotional wellbeing.5
Vitamin B12
Vitamin B12 is 'The Energy Vitamin' and is essential for the production of red blood cells, fuelling our energy and helping maintain a healthy heart.
Folate
Folate is required in the synthesis of DNA and the replication of new cells. It is needed in during pregnancy to help prevent neural tube defects in the foetus.
Vitamin B1
Vitamin B1 contributes to normal energy metabolism, the normal functioning of the nervous system, our psychological function and our heart health.
Vitamin B3
Vitamin B3 supports our brain function by helping transport messages through it, and in breaking down the foods we eat into energy which it supplies to the brain.
Vitamin D3
Our plant-based Vitamin D3 is sourced from green algae that provides more effective D3, making it better for you and our planet.
Vitamin K2
Vitamin K2 is a less well-known vitamin but plays a vital role in heart and bone health. It can easily be gained through our diet in foods such as green leafy vegetables, so deficiency is rare.
Chromium
Chromium is a trace mineral that is used by the body for the metabolism of carbohydrates. A healthy balance of Chromium helps the body control the levels of fat and cholesterol in the blood.
CoQ-10
Found in almost every cell of the body, Co-Enzyme Q10 (CoQ-10) is a fat-soluble, enzyme that helps convert food into energy and is required in large amounts in the heart muscle.
