From summer break to everyday life - get off to a stronger hormonal start with inositol
Summer was light, wild and a little bit chaotic. Sleep rhythm? Spontaneous. Nutrition? Something with ice cream. And now? Everyday life is calling - and your body is still trying to keep up. If your mood, cycle or skin are suddenly out of sync, it's no coincidence. It's often a hormonal thing. This is where inositol comes into play - a silent player in your cell orchestra. It provides support where the body calls for balance: in cycle regulation, energy balance and skin appearance. A real all-rounder that keeps things in order without any major drama. [1] [6]
In our article, you can find out what inositol actually is, how it works in the body - and why now is the right time to do something good for your hormone balance.
Inositol - the secret director in your body
Have you ever heard of inositol? Don't worry if you haven't, because this substance prefers to work without much of a spotlight. Inositol is a vitamin-like substance that the human body partly produces itself - mainly in the kidneys, but also in the liver and brain, i.e. where a lot of communication takes place and hormone-active tissues are located [2]. Sometimes it is also referred to as vitamin B8, although strictly speaking it is not a vitamin at all.
Think of inositol as a silent message manager that plays an enormously important role in your cells. Its main task is to help with signal transmission - a kind of endogenous whisper that ensures that important information arrives exactly where it is needed. Especially in the hormone system, where countless messenger substances interact with each other, this smooth communication is essential for our well-being [3].
Myo- and D-chiro-inositol - an unbeatable power duo
Inositol is not just inositol. There are nine different forms, but two of them are the absolute superstars: myo-inositol and D-chiro-inositol. They are like a perfectly coordinated team that plays to its strengths in different areas of the body.
Myo-inositol is the generalist. It is found in almost all cells and plays a key role in regulating blood sugar levels, cell function and ovarian activity. It provides the basic hormonal order, so to speak.
D-chiro-inositol is the specialist. It is formed from myo-inositol and is particularly important for insulin storage and the control of specific hormonal processes.
The two unfold their full potential when they work together. Studies show that the combination of myo- and D-chiro-inositol in a ratio of 40:1 can have positive effects on the hormonal and metabolic balance in women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) - one of the most common hormonal disorders of childbearing age [4].
When the hormones suddenly start partying - what's behind it
After a relaxing vacation, during which the sleep rhythm was more of a rough recommendation, our entire physiology - i.e. the totality of all life processes in our body - first has to get used to the routine again. This change is pure stress for our hormonal system.
Our endocrine system, a network of hormone-producing cells and glands, is the command center of our body. The basic anatomy of this system is fascinating: a good example of this sensitive control is the hypothalamus, a central organ in the brain that works closely with the pituitary gland.
This duo controls the release of messenger substances so that communication between the various organs works. The thyroid hormones, which regulate our entire metabolism, also play an important role here. If our finely tuned day-night rhythm is disrupted, this can disrupt the release of certain hormones and affect our skin, energy levels or menstrual cycle [5].
Inositol's sites of action - an exciting journey through the body
The great thing about inositol is its versatility. It doesn't just work in one place, but supports different systems at the same time.
For a radiant complexion, even when the hormones are dancing
Hormonally induced blemishes or oily skin are often a sign that androgen levels are out of sync. Inositol can have a balancing effect here by positively influencing the signaling pathways in the skin cells and thus contributing to a clearer complexion [6].
Metabolic support: your partner for stable blood sugar
Fluctuating blood sugar levels can lead to cravings and energy lows. Inositol improves the cells' response to insulin. This means that sugar from the blood can be better transported into the cells and converted into energy. A blessing for anyone struggling with insulin resistance - a precursor to type 2 diabetes - or the pitfalls of an unstable metabolism [7].
Cycle harmony: support for regularity and the desire to have children
An irregular cycle or stopping the pill can pose challenges for the body. As an important messenger substance in the communication between the brain and ovaries, inositol can promote cycle regulation, positively influence the growth and maturation of the egg cell and thus provide valuable support on the way to the desired child - as part of a holistic and natural approach [8].
For the inner sun: a plus for mood and nerves
Our brain also loves inositol. It is involved in the production of important neurotransmitters such as serotonin and dopamine - our “happiness hormones”. Initial studies suggest that inositol can make the inner sun shine again in the event of hormonal mood swings [9].
The hormonal reboot: simple tips for your everyday life
In addition to targeted supplementation with inositol, you can support your body wonderfully with simple habits.
Inositol on your plate: Incorporate foods such as beans, wholegrain products, nuts, melons and citrus fruits into your diet. They are natural sources of inositol and also provide other important nutrients.
Find your rhythm again: Try to go to bed and get up at similar times. Daylight in the morning and a digital time-out in the evening are balm for your inner clock.
Exercise that is good for body and soul: Gentle exercise such as yoga, walking or cycling reduces stress hormones and releases happiness hormones. Find something you enjoy - without any pressure to perform!
Inositol capsules - a useful supplement?
Absolutely! Especially if you want to work specifically on hormonal balance, a dietary supplement can be very valuable. Compared to powder, capsules offer the advantage of a simple and precise dosage - perfect for stressful everyday life and for on the go.
When choosing your product, pay attention to the following three quality features:
The power duo: The proven combination of myo- and D-chiro-inositol, ideally in a 40:1 ratio.
Useful supplements: Inositol is often combined with folic acid or B vitamins, which provide additional support for hormonal function.
Tested quality: Choose products from trustworthy manufacturers that are free from unnecessary additives.
FAQ - Frequently asked questions
When can I expect the first results?
Patience is the magic word here! As your body needs time to adjust, many women report the first positive changes after around 8 weeks [10]. But remember: every body is unique!
What do I need to bear in mind when taking inositol capsules?
For optimum effect, it is important to take them regularly, preferably at the same time every day. If you are unsure about the dosage or are taking other medication, it is best to ask your doctor for advice.
Can I take Inositol during pregnancy or while breastfeeding?
Pregnancy and breastfeeding are very special phases in which your body has special needs. Before taking a dietary supplement, it is important to talk to a healthcare professional. Although there are studies investigating the use of myo-inositol in cases of gestational diabetes, for example, its use and the appropriate dosage should always be clarified on an individual basis.
What type of person is Inositol particularly suitable for?
Basically, everyone can benefit from a balanced hormone balance. However, inositol is particularly interesting for women who want to regulate their cycle in a natural way, who are looking for support with PCOS or the desire to have children or who want to balance their metabolism in the event of insulin resistance.
Are there any side effects when taking it?
Inositol is considered to be very safe and well tolerated. Only in very high doses can slight gastrointestinal complaints such as flatulence occur in rare cases.
What happens if I have too little inositol in my body?
A deficiency can disrupt the all-important cell communication. This is particularly noticeable where many hormonal signals are processed - such as in the brain, ovaries or skin. A targeted supplement can provide valuable support here.
Sources
[1] https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/PMC6888190
[2] https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/PMC8268915
[3] https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/2010435
[4] https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38295772
[5] https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/PMC5372003
[6] https://www.oatext.com/Inositol in women suffering from acne & PCOS
[7] https://europepmc.org/5655679
[8] https://www.sciencedirect.com/S0301211509005466
[9] https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/7726322
[10] https://www.frontiersin.org/fphar.2017.00341