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Does Myo-Inositol Work for Weight Loss?

Myo-Inositol for Weight Loss and PCOS: An Effective Therapy?

Written by: Ana María Kausel, Endocrinologist at Anzara Health

Published: 12-15-2023

Does Myo-inositol help with weight Loss? You’ve probably asked this question if you are exploring therapeutic alternatives for managing body weight and PCOS.

It’s hard for people with hormone-related weight issues to tell what works and what doesn’t from the myriad of available supplements, with Inositol being one of the few actually backed by studies.

In this article, we’ll go through the science behind Myo and D Chiro inositol therapy, assessing its viability as a weight loss and PCOS treatment while answering all your questions.

What is Myo-Inositol?

Inositol is a nutrient that forms part of the B-vitamin complex family. While technically a form of sugar alcohol, it is much less sweet and naturally exists in various everyday foods such as fruits, beans, grains, and especially nuts.

This nutrient is key to insulin signaling, glucose metabolism, mood regulation, and other important bodily processes. 

The primary reason Inositol frequently surfaces in health discussions is due to the complementary health benefits of its two main isomers, D-Chiro and Myo Inositol.

Often taken as supplements for their potential to alleviate certain health conditions.

A prime example is its use in managing Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) and its efficacy in aiding weight loss.

The intake of Inositol supplements has shown significant potential in supporting metabolic health, enhancing mood, and sustaining overall equilibrium in the body.

How Does Inositol Help With Weight Loss?

Scientific and medical studies have suggested a potential relationship between Myo-Inositol and weight loss. This nutrient has been under scrutiny for its targeted benefits to women suffering from PCOS, a hormonal disorder that often results in weight gain. 

Myo-inositol is thought to aid in regulating insulin levels and improving metabolic processes. As insulin resistance is a common problem in PCOS, supplementing with Myo-Inositol could aid the body in using insulin more effectively, leading to improved weight regulation and weight loss. 

Moreover, a study published in the International Journal of Endocrinology reported that Myo-Inositol supplements significantly reduced weight and improved insulin resistance among women with PCOS. 

Though concrete conclusions are yet to be established by the scientific community, these early results indicate a promising role for Inositol in weight management, particularly for women dealing with PCOS.

Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome. Hand Writing PCOS on wooden puzzles

Myo-Inositol for Women with PCOS

Insulin resistance is often present in women with PCOS, contributing to many of the symptoms associated with the condition, like irregular menstrual cycles and weight gain.

The issue with insulin resistance is that it prevents your body’s cells from normally absorbing glucose from your bloodstream, causing sugar levels to rise and ultimately leading to your body to store excess glucose as fat.

Clinical reports have found that Myo-Inositol plays a role in insulin signaling and glucose metabolism. Aiding your body in insulin regulation and maintaining adequate blood sugar levels.

It’s also worth mentioning that, unlike other therapeutic alternatives for PCOS, Inositol supplementation doesn’t involve the intake of any hormones.

D-Chiro-Inositol and Myo-Inositol for PCOS

Despite being nearly identical at a molecular level, these two Inositol isomers work differently in signaling insulin.

Myo-inositol is involved in the body’s use of glucose, while D-Chiro-inositol mainly affects glycogen synthesis and storage. 

Studies have found that Myo-Inositol is the most beneficial of the two for helping women with PCOS manage their symptoms. Meanwhile, the consensus on D-Chiro is that it won’t help unless taken in tandem with the former. 

This helps explain why the ideal ratio of Myo-Inositol to D-Chiro Inositol is 40:1.

How long does myo-inositol take to work?

In the context of weight loss, Myo-Inositol is absorbed quickly by the body since it’s water soluble and has high bioavailability.

Physiologically, it’ll take action immediately, but you’ll take some time to notice any results, as with any weight loss regimen. 

Scientific research has shown that over some time, a large percentage of women with PCOS will experience weight loss and regularization of their periods when taking Inositol supplementation.

Which Patients can Benefit the Most from Inositol?

As mentioned above, Inositol therapy can be highly beneficial for patients who struggle with conditions associated with insulin resistance—namely, women with PCOS.

Additionally, it may be useful for those seeking weight loss alternatives, patients with metabolic syndrome, and individuals experiencing anxiety or depression since Inositol has been found to have mood-stabilizing properties as well.

Concept polycystic ovary syndrome, PCOS. Paper art, awareness of PCOS, image of the female reproductive system

Getting the Dosage Right 

When discussing Inositol dosages, it’s important to remember that everyone is unique and that there isn’t a one-size-fits-all answer.

After all, we’re talking about a naturally occurring compound already found in regular food items, and your diet alone might provide a significant amount. 

Inositol is typically well-tolerated, and side effects are rare, with the FDA regards it as a safe (GRAS) supplement.

You should consult your healthcare provider to determine the optimal amount for you.  

Inositol Safety and Side Effects

Inositol already forms part of your everyday diet through different foods. Therefore, it’s no surprise that as a supplement, it’s well tolerated by most people

Medical studies and clinical practice report dosages ranging from less than 1g/day to 4g/day, with no noticeable side effects

Above the 12g/day threshold, patients can start to feel mild gastrointestinal side effects such as nausea, bloating, and diarrhea.

My Opinion On Inositol

Insulin sensitizers, like Inositol, help the body have an adequate insulin response to carbohydrates, aiding in the passage of glucose into cells and preventing it from being stored as fat.

In this context, Metformin has long been regarded as the gold standard for insulin sensitizers, but it’s known to cause GI-related side effects.

Inositol has been gaining traction as a viable alternative to Metformin with little to no side effects through scientific and clinical tests.

Women with PCOS may already suffer from GI issues like bloatedness or an irritable bowel. Hence, a therapeutic alternative for insulin sensibilization that doesn’t upset your stomach is welcome.

Get Endocrinological Help for Weight Loss

Anzara Health is a health and wellness company committed to providing actionable and evidence-based solutions for holistic well-being.

Driven by a team of healthcare professionals, Anzara Health’s endocrinologists can assist in your journey toward weight loss and symptom reduction for PCOS with inositol supplements. 

Leveraging the latest scientific knowledge, we create individualized plans to ensure an effective use of inositol. Begin your journey to wellness today – don’t hesitate to schedule an appointment with us.

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