Health Benefits of Inositol
July 24th, 2009
Inositol is a nutrient in the vitamin B complex that the body requires to maintain healthy functioning of cell membranes. Inositol promotes hair growth, stabilizes estrogen levels and can reduce blood cholesterol.
A naturally occurring nutrient, inositol is present in the diet from various sources, such as brown rice, legumes, cereals, peas, wheat bran, nuts, fruits, wheat germ, and vegetables, among others. If your intake of inositol is insufficient, you may experience hair loss, vision problems, high cholesterol, and eczema.
With its central role in cell health and neurotransmission, inositol is a necessary and important ingredient, although not categorized as a vital nutrient.
Aiding transmission of messages along neural pathways, inositol’s primary activity is in the central nervous system, promoting the health and functioning of brain cells, retinal cells, bone marrow cells, and intestinal cells.
Also called myoinositol and Vitamin B8, it has the same chemical formula as glucose, the main source of energy. Inositol aids in nutrient transfer across the cell membrane, conversion of nutrients into energy, facilitation of nerve impulses and muscle function, prevention of fats accumulation in the liver, and maintenance of the body’s electrical energy.
Effective in the treatment of depression, inositol promotes the action of serotonin, a neurotransmitter which has mood elevating abilities. Inositol has also been used in the treatment of other psychological-related disorders that respond to serotonin uptake inhibitors.
Inositol has proven beneficial in the treatment of: Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), Alzheimer’s disease, liver problems, bulimia, diabetes, insomnia, high blood cholesterol, bipolar mood disorder, anxiety, polycystic ovary syndrome, acute and chronic pain, and panic disorders.
Recent research indicates that inositol can prevent and treat certain types of cancer. The high levels of inositol in fiber contribute to fiber’s anti-cancer properties. In clinical settings, inositol can reduce the need for pain medication.
For more information about inositol for health and wellness call Dr. Richard Browne, Acupuncture Physician, at (305) 595-9500.
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