Can Inositol Help PMOS?
If you’ve been diagnosed with PMOS, chances are that you’ve probably come across inositol during a Google search or while scrolling through social media. It is often recommended as a supplement to help with common PMOS symptoms like irregular periods, insulin resistance, and acne.
But what exactly is inositol, and does it work?
Here is a straightforward, research-based look at what inositol is, how it might help with PMOS, and what to consider before trying it.
What is PMOS?
Polyendocrine Metabolic Ovarian Syndrome (PMOS) is primarily understood to be a hormonal condition that impacts metabolic health and your reproductive system. The exact causes of PMOS are unknown but it is driven by a combination of genetic factors, high androgen (male hormone) levels and insulin resistance.
Common symptoms of PMOS May include1
- Irregular periods
- Excess body/facial hair (hirsutism)
- Acne
- Hair loss/thinning
- Weight gain
- Skin tags
We’ve written before in more detail about what PMOS is, how it’s diagnosed, the different types of PMOS and what are the diet and lifestyle changes recommended to manage it. If you’ve ever wondered whether there’s a link between PMOS and ADHD, we’ve written about that too!
What Is Inositol?
Inositol is a type of sugar that your body naturally produces. It helps keep your cells healthy and plays a role in hormone balance, brain function, and how your body processes insulin.1 Small amounts of inositol are found in foods like fruits, beans, corn, grains, and meat, and most people get about one gram per day through their diet.1
Myo-inositol and D-chiro-inositol are two forms of the same compound. Your body makes both and can convert myo-inositol into D-chiro-inositol as needed. Research suggests that maintaining the right balance between the two may improve insulin sensitivity and support hormone health in people with PMOS.2
What Are the Benefits of Inositol?
Studies so far have shown promising results. Here are some of the most common potential benefits:1,3,4
1. Improved insulin sensitivity: Helps your body use sugar more effectively, which is important since many patients with PMOS have insulin resistance.
2. Lower androgen levels: Lowering these may reduce symptoms like acne, excess facial or body hair, and hair thinning.
3. More regular periods: Inositol supports hormonal balance and can lead to more consistent menstrual cycles.
4. Increased ovulation and better egg quality: Normalized cycles lead to improved fertility by achieving ovulation more regularly as well as by improving egg and embryo development.
5. Lower risk of metabolic issues: Helps reduce signs of metabolic syndrome, such as high blood sugar, high blood pressure, and abdominal fat storage.
6. Lowers cholesterol and blood sugar markers: May help reduce cholesterol levels and lower HbA1c, a marker of your blood sugar over the last three months.
Inositol works best when combined with healthy lifestyle changes like a balanced diet, physical activity, and stress management. Of course, supplements are no magic bullet and work best when paired with all the lifestyle changes we’ve previously outlined. Think of it as one of the tools in your PMOS toolbox.
Can Inositol Improve Ovulation?
In a randomized double-blind trial of over 280 women with PMOS, those taking inositol ovulated more often and sooner than the placebo group.5 Estrogen levels rose faster too, a sign the ovaries were responding better to treatment.5 Weight and cholesterol also improved although though the benefits were less pronounced in women with a BMI over 37.5
Can Inositol Support Fertility Treatment?
For women undergoing fertility treatment, inositol may make the process smoother. In a study of nearly 200 women with PMOS, those who took 4 grams of myo-inositol with folic acid needed less fertility medication, completed shorter treatment cycles, and had higher pregnancy rates compared to those in the control group with no inositol.6
Can Inositol Help Regulate Periods and Improve Insulin Resistance?
A six-month study of 90 women with PMOS found that about 68% regained regular periods while taking myo-inositol.7 Hormone balance improved (including a better LH-to-FSH ratio), and insulin resistance dropped, with lower fasting insulin and improved HOMA-IR scores.7 Most women tolerated it well, with only mild side effects like nausea or bloating.
Are There Any Risks or Side Effects Associated With Inositol?
Inositol supplements are generally considered safe when used in typical doses. However, like any supplement, it is important to understand potential side effects and interactions.1
Some people may experience mild side effects such as:8
- Nausea
- Diarrhea
- Abdominal discomfort
- Headache
- Fatigue
- Dizziness
While inositol can be a helpful addition to treatment plans, it shouldn’t replace any medications unless advised by your healthcare provider. Consul with your provider before adding any new supplements to your routine.
Can Inositol Interact with Other Medications or Nutrients?
Inositol is generally safe and well-tolerated, but it can interact with certain medications and supplements.
The following combinations are often studied and found to be helpful, especially in managing PMOS symptoms:9
Folic Acid: Commonly paired with inositol in PMOS treatment. This combo improves menstrual regularity, hormonal balance, and metabolic health.
Melatonin: Used to improve oocyte (egg) and embryo quality in fertility treatments. In combination with inositol and folic acid, it may boost pregnancy outcomes in women undergoing IVF or with a history of poor egg quality.
Vitamin D: May enhance the hormonal and reproductive benefits of inositol.
Combinations to Use with Caution:
Diabetes Medications: Inositol improves insulin sensitivity and may lower blood sugar. When taken with diabetes medications, it can increase the risk of blood sugar dropping too low (hypoglycemia).8 If you have diabetes, monitor your blood sugar closely and talk to your healthcare provider before starting inositol.
Inositol works well with several nutrients and is especially effective in PMOS management when combined appropriately. However, if you’re taking medications or other supplements that affect blood sugar, it’s important to consult your healthcare provider before starting.
Are There Food Sources of Inositol?
If you're not quite ready to add a supplement to your routine, the good news is that inositol can be naturally found in many everyday foods. By including more of these in your diet, you can gently support your hormonal and metabolic health.
Here’s a look at the top dietary sources of inositol:10
1. Whole Grains: Brown rice, oatmeal, whole wheat bread
These complex carbs are rich in inositol and offer fibre, vitamins, and minerals.
2. Citrus Fruits: Oranges, grapefruits, lemons
These fresh and tangy fruits provide a good amount of inositol along with vitamin C, which helps boost immunity and skin health.
3. Beans and Lentils: Kidney beans, chickpeas, lentils
These are some excellent sources of inositol, and they also deliver plenty of protein and fibre to keep you full and satisfied.
4. Nuts and Seeds: Almonds, walnuts, peanuts, sunflower seeds, flaxseeds
A handy snack or salad topper, nuts and seeds contain notable levels of inositol and healthy fats.
5. Leafy Greens: Spinach, Swiss chard
These greens offer inositol as well as important vitamins, minerals, and fibre, making them great for overall wellness.
6. Mushrooms: Especially Shiitake mushrooms
Mushrooms add flavour and texture to meals and are a tasty way to naturally boost your inositol intake.
Incorporating a mix of these foods into your meals can help raise your inositol levels naturally while supporting a balanced, nutritious diet.
How Can July Health Help?
Whether you decide to try inositol supplements or just add more of it to your diet through food, small changes can make a big difference in how you feel. If this all feels overwhelming to figure, you don’t have to do it alone!
At July Health, we believe in a personalized approach because every woman’s journey is unique. Our friendly, registered dietitians are here to help you create a plan that fits you and your lifestyle.
Ready to get started? Book a free consultation with our PMOS dietitians.
This article is for informational purposes only and isn't a substitute for individualized medical advice. Talk to your doctor before starting or stopping any medication.
References:
- Cleveland Clinic. (2023, August 6). What Is Inositol? Cleveland Clinic. https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/drugs/25173-inositol
- Placidi M, Casoli G, Tatone C, Di Emidio G, Bevilacqua A. Myo-Inositol and Its Derivatives: Their Roles in the Challenges of Infertility. Biology (Basel). 2024 Nov 16;13(11):936. doi: 10.3390/biology13110936. PMID: 39596891; PMCID: PMC11592302.
- Greff D, Juhász AE, Váncsa S, Váradi A, Sipos Z, Szinte J, Park S, Hegyi P, Nyirády P, Ács N, Várbíró S, Horváth EM. Inositol is an effective and safe treatment in polycystic ovary syndrome: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials. Reprod Biol Endocrinol. 2023 Jan 26;21(1):10. doi: 10.1186/s12958-023-01055-z. PMID: 36703143; PMCID: PMC9878965.
- Nordio M, Proietti E. The combined therapy with myo-inositol and D-chiro-inositol reduces the risk of metabolic disease in PCOS overweight patients compared to myo-inositol supplementation alone. Eur Rev Med Pharmacol Sci. 2012 May;16(5):575-81. PMID: 22774396.
- Gerli, S., Mignosa, M., & Di Renzo, G. C. (2003). Effects of inositol on ovarian function and metabolic factors in women with PCOS: a randomized double blind placebo-controlled trial. European Review for Medical and Pharmacological Sciences, 7(6), 151–159. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/15206484/
- Emekçi Özay, Ö., Özay, A. C., Çağlıyan, E., Okyay, R. E., & Gülekli, B. (2017). Myo-inositol administration positively effects ovulation induction and intrauterine insemination in patients with polycystic ovary syndrome: a prospective, controlled, randomized trial. Gynecological Endocrinology, 33(7), 524–528. https://doi.org/10.1080/09513590.2017.1296127
- Minthami Sharon P, Mellonie P, Anu Manivannan, Priyanka Thangaraj, & M, L. B. (2024). The Effectiveness of Myo-Inositol in Women With Polycystic Ovary Syndrome: A Prospective Clinical Study. Cureus. https://doi.org/10.7759/cureus.53951
- WebMD. (2019). Inositol: Uses, Side Effects, Interactions, Dosage, and Warning. Webmd.com. https://www.webmd.com/vitamins/ai/ingredientmono-299/inositol
- Kamenov, Z., & Gateva, A. (2020). Inositols in PCOS. Molecules, 25(23), 5566. https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules25235566
- Boost Your Health With These Foods Loaded with Inositol. (2023, July 10). Natural Endocrinology Specialists. https://www.nesaz.com/foods-loaded-with-inositol/
