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| In animal cells, it occurs as a component of phospholipids and it stored predominantly in the brain, spinal cord nerves, cerebral spinal fluid, skeletal muscle, and heart muscle. The human body contains more inositol than any other vitamin except niacin. Source Inositol is available from both plant and animal sources. Function; Reasons For Use Inositol is simply a hexane molecule (ringed structure of 6 carbons) with 6 hydroxyl groups (OH) attached. Inositol is also used to make Inositol Triphosphate (IP3), an important secondary messenger in various cell signaling events. Inositol is also lipotropic, meaning it associates with lipids (fats). Its lipotropic characteristics have been used to help move fatty material from the liver, into the intestines where they can be effectively removed with fiber. Inositol appears to be a precursor of the phosphoinosities (compounds that may be important in hormonal action) especially in the brain. Serotonin and acetylcholine, two neurotransmitters, both depend upon inositol, and supplementation can therefore assist in the reduction of depression and panic attacks. Loss of inositol from nerve cells is the primary reason for diabetic neuropathy, so inositol supplementation can assist in improving this condition. Inositol also has a prominent calming effect on the central nervous system, so it may be helpful to those with insomnia. It can gradually lower blood pressure, and can be helpful in cases of schizophrenia, hypoglycemia, and those with high serum copper and low serum zinc levels. Intake of caffeine is known to deplete the bodies supply of inositol. Directions The RDA is 100mg per day, but be aware that this dosage is the minimum that you require to ward off deficiency of this particular nutrient. It is best used with choline, which should be taken in the same amount as inositol. Vitamin E, vitamin C as well as folic acid and linoleic acid are thought to increase the functioning of inositol. |
| Anxiety Poor Memory Depression High Total Cholesterol Inositol Requirement Metabolic Diet Type Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) |