Inositol (or myo-inositol) is a B-vitamin-like molecule often used to help regulate blood sugar, manage polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS), and manage mood disorders such as anxiety. Inositol is a precursor to phosphatidylinositol, which is central to the phosphoinositide cycle. This cycle is essential to multiple brain signaling systems, delivering messages from a variety of hormones and neurotransmitters (brain messenger-molecules) from receptors on the nerve cell membrane to the inside of the cell. Essentially, inositol helps to improve the sensitivity of various receptors, which in turn helps to balance mood and blood sugar in cases of PCOS. Research suggests that high doses of inositol can address the symptoms of behavioural and compulsive disorders, particularly those related to mood imbalances and worrying. Signaling systems dependent on the phosphoinositide system include neurotransmitters, which are key targets for antidepressant drugs. Recent research also supports a role for lower doses of inositol in cellular defense and normal cell growth and differentiation, especially in combination with I-P-6 (inositol hexaphosphate or phytate).
