Vitamin B8 has surprising health benefits throughout your body. Known as inositol, this supplement is gaining popularity for supporting hormonal balance, metabolic health, and mental wellbeing. Learn what vitamin B8 does and when supplements might help.
Vitamin B8: Supporting hormonal balance and metabolic health
What are the benefits of taking vitamin B8?
Vitamin B8, widely known as inositol, is becoming increasingly popular in the wellness space. It's not technically a vitamin, because your body can actually produce it naturally from glucose, but rather a sugar molecule found in your body, in certain foods, and available as a supplement.
Inositol plays a key role in regulating glucose metabolism and improving insulin sensitivity, which means it helps your body manage blood sugar more effectively. It's also essential for cell function and maintaining healthy cell membranes.
Research shows inositol supplements have several important health benefits. They're primarily taken to balance hormones, support mental wellbeing, and promote reproductive and metabolic health. They're also widely used to help manage the symptoms of PMOS (Polyendocrine Metabolic Ovarian Syndrome), making them a truly versatile supplement that does a lot of good for the body.
What is a good source of vitamin B8?
As well as being produced naturally in your body, inositol is found in various foods. Good sources include wholegrains, nuts, seeds, soy products, beans, and citrus fruits. You'll also find it in high-bran cereals and artichokes.
Most people can get some inositol from a balanced diet, though supplementation is often used for specific health concerns.
Can vitamin B8 help with PMOS?
Inositol has emerged as a popular supplement to help women with PMOS (previously PCOS) manage their symptoms,[1] especially when taken with folic acid. It’s also been shown to be highly effective at regulating menstrual cycles and lowering free testosterone levels by improving the body's response to insulin. Research suggests it may also help promote ovulation in women with fertility issues from PMOS. [2]
Can inositol support mental health?
Vitamin B8 appears to play a role in mental wellbeing, too. Research suggests it can help balance important brain hormones, including serotonin and dopamine, potentially helping relieve symptoms of depression and other mood disorders. Some studies also indicate inositol may reduce the frequency and severity of panic attacks and help ease symptoms of bipolar disorder.
Should I take an inositol supplement?
Inositol supplements have a range of health benefits and research shows they can help support the treatment of certain metabolic and mental health conditions. People take inositol to manage blood sugar, boost fertility, manage PMOS symptoms, and support mental health and wellbeing.
Inositol is generally safe and well-tolerated. However, taking higher amounts can occasionally lead to mild side effects like nausea, gas, or headaches. If you're pregnant, or taking other medications, always speak to a doctor or pharmacist before taking new supplements.
Inositol is available in capsules and powders in various strengths, typically ranging from 250–500mg.
Explore our range of premium inositol supplements to support hormone balance, metabolic health and emotional wellbeing.
Sources
https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/drugs/25173-inositol
https://www.sciencedirect.com/topics/agricultural-and-biological-sciences/inositol
