My favourite supplement for PCOS

The secret is out! Inositol is one of my favourite supplements for PCOS. It's done well in several clinical trials and was included as evidence-based medicine in the 2018 International PCOS Guidelines (1). In fact, myo-inositol was non-inferior to metformin in terms of weight loss for higher BMI groups and menstrual regularity with a lower rate of side effects (2).

Myo-inositol (MI) improves insulin sensitivity, lowers androgens and promotes ovulation and fertility in PCOS. It works (in part) by amplifying FSH signalling inside the follicle (egg cell). Moreover, myo-inositol can enhance the effect of metformin and clomiphene on the fertility of PCOS women seeking pregnancy. Higher levels of naturally occurring myo-inositol in human egg and follicular fluid are associated with higher-quality oocytes (eggs), and supplementation appears to reduce high insulin and help restore fertility in women with PCOS.

How Does Inositol Help PCOS?

1. Improves Insulin Resistance: Many people with PCOS are insulin resistant, which increases the risk of diabetes, obesity, and infertility. Inositols help balance insulin levels and improve insulin sensitivity (3).

2. Enhances Ovulation and Fertility: Inositol supplements have been shown to improve ovulation and increase pregnancy rates in PCOS patients.

3. Reduces Testosterone: Elevated testosterone levels are common in PCOS. Inositol can help lower testosterone, improving symptoms like hirsutism (excess hair growth) and acne.

4. Regulates Menstruation: Inositol promotes regular menstrual cycles, addressing irregular periods associated with PCOS.

   
   Taking myo-inositol can promote regular ovulation and reverse many symptoms of PCOS. It is easy to take as a powder that you mix into water and drink once to twice daily before meals. The only side effect known is digestive upset ie) loose stools as the body gets use to the dose. This should go away after some use.

   If you have question about supplementing with myo- inositol in PCOS -why I do not recommend D-chiro inositol, what dose is right for you, and possible interactions with fertility medications or lab work, book in for an initial naturopathic visit and get your questions answered!

Resources:

1) PMID: 30052961

2) Reproductive Biology and Endocrinology: https://rbej.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s12958-023-01055-z

3) PMID: 30614282